How to apply for the Vision Mātauranga Capability Fund

How to Apply for the Vision Mātauranga Capability Fund

In recent years, there has been an increasing awareness of the importance of recognizing and incorporating Māori knowledge, culture, and values into research and innovation in New Zealand. To address this need, the Vision Mātauranga policy was developed, which aims to support projects that involve the application of Māori knowledge, and that have potential for economic and social benefits for Māori and all New Zealanders.

One of the key funding sources of the Vision Mātauranga policy is the Capability Fund, which provides support for researchers and institutions to build and enhance their capacity for undertaking research and innovation that engages with Māori knowledge, culture, and values. In this article, we will guide you through the process of applying for the Vision Mātauranga Capability Fund.

Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for the Capability Fund, it is important to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. The fund is open to:

– Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs)
– Universities, Crown Research Institutes (CRIs), and other research organizations that are registered with the New Zealand Companies Office as either a limited liability company or a society
– Māori entities that are registered with the New Zealand Companies Office as either a limited liability company or a society, and that have an existing record of research and development.

If you belong to any of the above categories, you can proceed to the next step.

Application Process
The application process for the Capability Fund is a two-stage process. The first stage is the submission of a Concept Proposal, which outlines the key features of the proposed project, such as the rationale, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. The Concept Proposal should be a maximum of three pages and should be submitted online via the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment (MBIE) online portal.

Once the Concept Proposal is received, it will be assessed by a panel of experts, who will provide feedback on the proposal’s suitability for funding. Successful Concept Proposals will be invited to proceed to the second stage of the application process, which involves the submission of a full proposal.

The full proposal should provide further detail on the project, including a detailed work plan, budget, and timeline. Applicants will also be required to demonstrate how their project aligns with the Vision Mātauranga policy, and how it will benefit Māori and all New Zealanders. Full proposals should be a maximum of ten pages and should be submitted online via the MBIE online portal.

Key Considerations
When applying for the Capability Fund, it is important to keep the following considerations in mind:

– Ensure that your project aligns with the Vision Mātauranga policy and addresses the needs and aspirations of Māori communities.
– Involve Māori stakeholders in your project design and planning, and demonstrate how their perspectives and knowledge will be incorporated into the project.
– Clearly articulate the potential economic, social, and cultural benefits of your project for Māori and all New Zealanders.
– Provide a realistic work plan, budget, and timeline that demonstrate how the project will be delivered within the funding period.
– Show how the project builds capacity for undertaking research and innovation that engages with Māori knowledge, culture, and values.

Conclusion
The Vision Mātauranga Capability Fund provides a valuable opportunity for researchers and institutions to build and enhance their capacity for undertaking research and innovation that engages with Māori knowledge, culture, and values. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your application is well-prepared and aligned with the Vision Mātauranga policy. Be sure to involve Māori stakeholders in your project design and planning, and demonstrate how your project will benefit Māori and all New Zealanders.