“NZ Manufacturing Innovation Day” new at EMEX

“NZ Manufacturing Innovation Day” new at EMEX

The country’s premier manufacturing, engineering, machinery, electronics and technology trade show is now also one of the key innovation showcases. EMEX this year introduces a new feature, with an entire day devoted to panel discussions and seminars focused on innovation.

“We saw a gap in our show to better communicate the assistance that is out there for New Zealand manufacturers. We’ve invested a great deal of time ring-fencing the best equipped local, central government and other organisations whose mandate is fostering sector related innovation, R&D and export potential,” says Brent Spillane, managing director of XPO Exhibitions, the organisation behind the successful EMEX event. “The special full-day on innovation kicks off with a panel discussion. Among the organisations contributing are New Zealand Trade & Enterprise, Callaghan Innovation, Business New Zealand/Export New Zealand, and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.

“The day two (May 28) panel will cover skilled labour, exports and export case studies, research and development, and much more. Manufacturers will have a chance to ask questions that matter as to what these (respective) organisations can offer the industry.

“Whilst the panel session is highly anticipated, the lion’s share of the day will be driven by The Kiwi Innovation Network (Kiwinet), whose mandate is about connecting R&D with industry.”

KiwiNet is excited to be part of EMEX 2014, says the organisation’s Natalie Ward. “What better way to connect with New Zealand’s manufacturing community; to explore ways to leverage our combined capability; to share networks; and to help solve your organisation’s key challenges?

“If you have a great idea to help grow your business or you need to solve a problem plaguing your industry, how do you find the best and brightest minds in New Zealand’s research community to work with you? KiwiNet is your one-stop-shop for tapping into New Zealand’s research base.

“KiwiNet is the largest public research organisation consortium in New Zealand. It acts as a focal point – a front door – into NZ’s research capability and as a bridge between our top researchers and the commercial world. As a trusted neutral party amongst our 13 partner organisations, we can help connect you with the best research minds for your particular solution, problem or field.

“The information age has created a highly competitive environment where the success of a country’s economy and the success of the businesses within that economy are increasingly dependent on the strength of their innovative abilities. Government-funded organisations such as KiwiNet are designed to help businesses connect and work with the country’s research base to create better commercial outcomes for everyone. And there’s funding available to help support good ideas from research organisations to prepare prototypes and prove technologies.

“As well as helping businesses connect directly with research providers, KiwiNet regularly runs a range of events to bring researchers and businesses together. We have helped many large and small organisations, from KiwiRail and General Cable to Invert Robotics and we help industry to understand how researchers and innovation really can make a difference to business.

“At EMEX 2014 KiwiNet is proud to present a series of seminars focused specifically on how innovation can make a difference to the manufacturing, engineering and technology industries represented. Dr Bram Smith, General Manager of KiwiNet, and some of our member organisations and stakeholders will provide case studies detailing how they have worked and are working with different manufacturing businesses to drive commercial value. Industry experts will also deliver a smorgasbord of insight addressing commercial finance, law, and IP protection; key parts of the commercialisation process for new innovations.

“KiwiNet’s role is to empower people who are involved or interested in research and innovation commercialisation. Our consortium consists of Plant and Food Research, Callaghan Innovation, AgResearch, Otago Innovation, Landcare Research, Lincoln University, University of Canterbury, Viclink, WaikatoLink, AUT Enterprises Ltd, NIWA, Cawthon Institute and ESR.

“Our mission is to create the best system for turning research ideas into commercial value and we can help you access the tools, connections and support you need to boost your business’ innovation power.”

Brent Spillane says that BNZ will be cohabiting exhibition space with Kiwinet onsite at the event, sharing solutions and case studies they have of working with Kiwinet manufacturers.

“BNZ is both strategically aligned with Kiwinet and the official banking partner of EMEX, recognising that innovation is great but also needs financial expertise to turn the ideas into reality. Visitors attending the Innovation Day will get an insight into financial solutions, growing business, fostering start-ups and new operations, and ways to leverage innovation into business success.

“EMEX is over three days, and it’s recommended to try and put aside at least two to really make the most of this business opportunity. With hundreds of exhibitors and a full programme of seminars – days one and three being technical and day two on innovation – it’s a must-see for anyone serious about making 2014 a year to remember.

“This is where the manufacturing community meets and collaborates. Experts who understand the sectors share their knowledge and economic insights, and assist with issues that impact both companies and the industry.

“There’s a good reason thousands of manufacturing, engineering, machinery, electronics and technology professionals make it a point to attend EMEX. With the innovation focus and other features, including the opportunity to win a brand new Ford Transit, win a trip in the high-tech, New Zealand made, Composite Helicopter, and see the latest and best from suppliers from across the country and around the world, EMEX 2014 will be the best yet.

“EMEX is where NZ Manufacturing Innovation takes off!”

EMEX 2014 is on from 27 to 29 May at the ASB Showgrounds in Auckland. Industry professionals wanting to visit EMEX can register for free entry on the website at www.emex.co.nz

ENDS

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