An Auckland produce company has been awarded the Government's first technology transfer voucher.
Fresh Direct will use the $190,000 grant, which it will match dollar for dollar, to develop a portable machine that will help process vegetables on the farm.
Science and Techology Minister Wayne Mapp says the development will help the vegetable industry increase productivity and reduce wastage.
He says Fresh Direct will work with Industrial Research Ltd on the project.
The technology transfer voucher scheme was announced by the Government in May, to encourage businesses to work with research organisations to bring together business ideas and high-quality research expertise.
