Technz Info For 2010

This is a headsup for companies interested in applying for TechNZ funding support to help support your intern’s wages!

UPDATED 13/8: Summer of Tech’s “tips” on TechNZ funding have been refreshed & rejuvenated. SoT companies, contact Ruth if you haven’t got a copy of our “guide” yet. Its a pdf that was emailed to you directly.
UPDATED 2/9: Notes on Grow Wellington assistance – see below
UPDATED 10/9: Deadline for Registrations of Interest now 17 Sept – see below

The Summer of Tech guidelines are available to companies registered for Summer of Tech 2010. If you’re not registered yet, it’s not too late!  Sign up here before the end of August and our friends at Grow Wellington will help you through the TechNZ process.

Grow Wellington is our local TechNZ regional partner.  Their role is purely ‘kerbside’ consultation.  They do not have any influence on the decision on expressions of interest, this sits with the TechNZ assessment panel.

By the way, Summer of Tech companies do NOT “have to” apply for TechNZ funding, this is an optional pathway only.  R&D funding may not be relevant to your company or your project, but if you choose to apply, we can support you through the process!

Here’s the highlights for those who are interested:

To apply to TechNZ for funding to support your Summer of Tech 2010 Intern:
You will need to complete a three page registration of interest document and submit to TechNZ by 17 September. This application form is available to be downloaded from the Foundation’s website – www.frst.govt.nz/technzinternships (go to the “Related Downloads” page on the top right hand side of the screen)

There you’ll also find a “fact sheet” which has all the ins & outs, including:

  • it’s very competitive, TechNZ is keen to support high-growth, export-oriented companies undertaking strategic R&D projects
  • the norm will be 1 intern funded per company
  • you can apply for up to $16/hr for up to 400 hours (remember, we ask that you pay your intern a minimum of $18 per hour for Summer of Tech internships)
  • TechNZ funding works as a reimbursement, that is, you need to pay your intern all summer, and claim the funding as a reimbursement at the end
  • you must be GST registered and operating in a commercial environment to be eligible to apply

Key deadlines:

  • Summer of Tech companies can get assistance with the application process, but you’ll need to contact us before 31 August to set up an appointment with Grow Wellington (sooner is fine!!)
  • Completed registrations are due on 17 September (email to technzinternship@frst.govt.nz) (updated 10/9)
  • You will be notified of their funding decision on  4 October (updated 10/9)
  • You don’t need to know who your student is until 19 November (yes, this works in perfectly with the Summer of Tech timings)

More info:

Summer of Tech companies, contact Ruth

Other companies, contact your TechNZ Investment Manager (if you have one, you’ll have their contact info), or your local TechNZ Regional Partner.