MediaLab secures Government Funding

Media Release

25th September 2002 Embargoed until 12.30pm

MediaLab secures Government Funding

It was announced today that $500,000 of government funding has been secured by MediaLab South Pacific Inc. for its establishment and to build project teams to develop collaborative world-class ICT research, development and commercialisation projects in New Zealand.

“This Industry New Zealand-facilitated commitment adds to the $686,000 already pledged by the industry and academic institutions who founded MediaLab and make up its national membership”, says Chief Executive, Michael Gregg.

The support shown by government will enable MediaLab to shortly open its doors and begin a number of research projects designed to build research capability within New Zealand, to undertake world-class research and development, to exploit the innovations arising from this research and build strong links between its academic and industry partners.

“We want to break down any barriers that prevent our research providers and private sector members from collaborating within the ICT and digital media sectors,” stated Michael Gregg.

MediaLab Chairman, Ian McIntosh, who is Deputy Dean (Research) at Victoria University, is enthusiastic about the potential of MediaLab.

“We’ve spent a year building a business model and reviewing intellectual property options that allow MediaLab to add real value to the research already underway within industry and in our Universities and Polytechnics, says Ian McIntosh.

“Through its role in bringing academic and industry parties together, MediaLab will enable new research capability and technologies, creating new businesses and new jobs,” he said.

ENDS

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