10 Jul 2012

Plan to boost use of science in Maori economy

6:30 am on 10 July 2012

The Federation of Maori Authorities has entered an agreement with the Crown Research Institute, Industrial Research Ltd in an effort to boost a science and innovation programme for Maori businesses.

FOMA chief executive Te Horipo Karaitiana says IRL has responded to a call, and seconded its Maori industry development manager to the federation, to help boost the Maori economy.

He says Maori authorities, trusts and incorporations want greater value from their assets and products they export. They also want to develop their own scientists.

Mr Karaitiana says IRL staff will help the Federation run a series of workshops, where experts in innovation and the commercialisation of products will help Maori businesses plan for the next 30 years or more.

He says FOMA, which represents more than 150 Maori organisations, wants to develop a science and business intern programme to help young, talented Maori get jobs.