Te Tītoki Mataora, the Medtech Research Translator, is a new initiative focussed on growing New Zealand’s deep tech sector by supporting research that addresses clinical problems and making solutions that are economically stable. Te Tītoki Mataora will provide opportunities for funding, education and collaboration, to build the networks and capability for a vibrant health innovation sector in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

This multi-faceted initiative is made up of two linked programmes: The HealthTech Capability Programme and the Research Acceleration Programme.

The HealthTech Capability Programme continues the momentum developed through the MedTech CoRE and Aotearoa Brain network by providing opportunities for support, education, and collaboration throughout the health research translation process. This programme is made up of five modules which will deliver strategic activities to progress each area of capability. These include:

- Mātauranga Māori

- Pacific Engagement

- Future Leaders

- Clinical Research Network

- Medtech Translation

The Research Acceleration Programme (RAP) provides funding opportunities for New Zealand based research groups. This contestable fund is aimed towards very early-stage medical device and digital health technology projects that are working towards clinical application and commercialisation. This funding will support collaboration and ideation, early design and development, and the acceleration of existing projects. Projects that address accessibility and inequity issues will be prioritised. The objective is to create a high-value deep tech popeline for the investment community.

Join us for our first virtual Town Hall session for the Wellington region where Diana Siew, Simon Fraser and Denise Taylor will present the vision for Te Tītoki Mataora. You will have the opportunty to ask questions and find out how this programme may benefit you and your research.

Te Tītoki Mataora Medtech Research Translator opportunities are available to all universities and Crown Research Institutes (CRI’s)/research institutes, clinicians and healthcare providers, and industry partners interested in medical device and digital health innovation.