Independent research institute PlantTech has changed its status to a not-for-profit incorporated society to underline its breadth of scope and better reflect the growing demand on its services.
The change to the organisation, which responds to demand amongst New Zealand’s primary sector for increased ability to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and data science for competitive advantage, also creates an opportunity for new board directorships.
“It is the start of a new chapter. Our team welcomes everyone on board and we look forward to working with our new and past members, many of whom have been with us since our inception three years ago,” said Mark Begbie, PlantTech chief executive officer.
The partnership was founded by horticultural-aligned companies from the Bay of Plenty who have strengths in plant-based technology and innovation.
A new board will now be formed and applications from around New Zealand are encouraged to join this nationally significant institute.
The Incorporated Society model underlines the scope of work PlantTech has undertaken since its inception and welcomes diversified members under its new structure to meet the needs of growing horticultural and plant industries across the country.
“As we enter a new phase, our focus will be on cementing the capabilities we have established, scaling our capacity to deliver, and delivering substantial value, whilst serving a wider and somewhat more diverse demographic.
“PlantTech has grown beyond the Bay of Plenty, moved into new crops, and is working with significant corporates and CRIs, complementing their strengths with ours and accelerating the transition of technology into commercialisation.”
He added: “Quite simply, we exist to help businesses in the horticulture sector thrive.”
