Grants › New Zealand

MBIE Endeavour Fund

New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) ScienceResearchTechnologyEnvironment

Funding available: Smart Ideas and Research Programmes; from ~$1M over multiple years
Deadlines: Annual contestable round; check the MBIE website for the current timetable.
Who it's for: New Zealand research organisations, universities, and businesses undertaking excellent research with high potential for impact.

Overview

The Endeavour Fund is New Zealand's largest contestable research fund, investing in excellent science that has high potential to positively transform New Zealand's economy, environment, and society.

It operates two investment mechanisms: Smart Ideas (for early-stage, high-potential research concepts) and Research Programmes (for larger, more developed research with clear impact pathways).

Eligibility

New Zealand-based research organisation, university, or business
Research must be excellent and demonstrate a clear pathway to impact
Aligns with the fund's investment signals and priorities
Strong team with the capability to deliver

How to apply

Applications are submitted through MBIE's contestable funding portal during an open round. Proposals are assessed on research excellence and potential impact.

Successful applications make the impact pathway explicit — who benefits, how, and by when — alongside a rigorous research plan. Engage partners and end-users early to strengthen the impact case.

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Official source & application portal: https://www.mbie.govt.nz/science-and-technology/science-and-innovation/funding-information-and-opportunities/investment-funds/endeavour-fund/
Content last verified 2026-09-01. Always confirm current details, amounts and dates with the funding body before applying.