Innovation Services (MBIE, post-Callaghan) is running an open round of the R&D Experience Grant that pays up to $11,960 plus GST for up to 400 hours (10 weeks, min 30 hrs/week) of a student intern in science, technology, engineering, design or business. Applications close at 9am Monday 24 August 2026 (or earlier if funding runs out), and first-time applicants must contact Innovation Services before 1pm Wednesday 19 August 2026. Eligible businesses are incorporated companies, registered limited partnerships or Māori trusts/incorporations with an active R&D programme and at least one R&D FTE.
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NZ R&D Experience Grant funds a 10-week intern (up to $11,960+GST); closes 24 Aug 2026
Why this matters for founders
An R&D-active NZ startup can get a subsidised STEM/design/business intern for summer at near-zero labour cost, but must move now: new applicants have to register interest before 1pm Wed 19 Aug 2026 and submit by 9am Mon 24 Aug 2026.
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