Since 2003, FoodHQ has been the centre of science-led food research and innovation in New Zealand. Historically, they have been guided largely by the food science and innovation sectors, which has allowed them to develop deep connections across the science innovation ecosystem and with government.
However, over the last few years, FoodHQ has begun thinking more broadly, considering how to bring together the entire agri-food sector to build a truly sustainable food system in New Zealand that is equitable, innovative, and export focused.
This need for sector-wide collaboration is foundational to the two-year AGMARDT partnership grant that FoodHQ received earlier in 2024.
Together with AGMARDT and industry leaders, FoodHQ is embracing a broader, silo-busting strategy focusing on connection, capability development, and thought leadership – while still delivering on science and innovation.
For the science-based organisation, it’s a big bold step, and one that’s vital, says FoodHQ CEO Victoria: “We have a very siloed agri-food sector in New Zealand, much of it regionally based and very competitive. Historically, it’s been hard to come together in a cohesive way to have a conversation about what’s best for New Zealand.”
To enhance sector-wide connection, FoodHQ has acquired the license for the E Tipu Agrifood Summit, reimagined it to become E Tipu the New Zealand Future Food and Fibre Summit (which has been supported by AGMARDT since its inception in 2019).
Victoria sees huge potential in this space: “We can create an ecosystem where we have the end-to-end food system represented and talking to each other; an event where we bring together science and innovation to inspire change on the farm. And the reverse is true too: we can better understand from farmers, producers, and marketers what is needed from the science sector – what is relevant to consumers and what is not.”
Food HQ will also strengthen the existing STAMP (Strategic Thinking for Agrifood Management Programme) programme targeted at young agribusiness leaders. As the only programme like it in New Zealand, STAMP offers the next generation a chance to see the world, solve problems together, and develop disruptive thinking that they can take into their careers.
And finally, FoodHQ will expand their thought leadership work, with a focus on collaboration across the sector.
“We have to learn to put our own desire to be successful almost to one side to make sure we’re successful as a country,” says Victoria.
This multi-pronged approach is one that AGMARDT
This multifaceted, collaborative approach is one that aligns with AGMARDT’s partnership criteria. “FoodHQ is unique, focusing on both capability and delivery of science and innovation. They are bold and ambitious in their thinking, and we’re excited to create transformational change together,” says AGMARDT GM Lee-Ann Marsh.
From FoodHQ’s perspective, AGMARDT’s backing is game-changing:
“AGMARDT’s partnership gives FoodHQ more credibility in the marketplace; we become more nationally relevant,” shares Victoria. “They also bring a big-picture perspective: the knowledge they bring to the board table, the connections they have, the ideas they see that others don’t – all are second to none.”
