The 2026 KiwiNet Awards Finalists Turning World-Class Research Into Global ImpactHAMILTON, NZ, 6 August 2026 – From breakthrough health technologies and smarter food production to clean-tech, agritech and space innovation, the 18 finalists in the 2026 KiwiNet Research Commercialisation Awards showcase the very best of Aotearoa New Zealand's science-led innovation. Representing universities, Crown Research Institutes, research organisations and innovative companies, the finalists are transforming world-class research into solutions creating new ventures, emerging industries, and lasting economic and societal benefit. KiwiNet CEO Dr James Hutchinson says the finalists are the standout performers of New Zealand's research commercialisation sector, transforming world-class research into innovations that improve lives, strengthen industries and grow the economy. Anna Clark, Deputy Secretary Labour, Science, and Enterprise at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, says, “The KiwiNet Awards finalists exemplify how research can have real-world impact. The KiwiNet Awards winners for 2026 will be announced at an evening reception in Auckland on 8 October.