UniCom is a university commercialisation consortium made up of WaikatoLink, Auckland University of Technology (AUT), Lincoln University, University of Canterbury and VicLink. UniCom is funded by the Foundation of Research, Science and Technology (FRST).
The funding provided by FRST aids the commercialisation of intellectual property from public sector research organisations. UniCom’s vision is to create economic growth in New Zealand by encouraging collaboration, building networks, and growing national commercialisation capability.
Mark Stuart, CEO of WaikatoLink, says, “The consortium gives capability beyond the strength of its individual members. By working together we can share our knowledge, expertise and local and international networks and create opportunities for everyone.”
Funding for individual projects is allocated by the UniCom Investment Committee, which is made up of a world-class group of independent members and representatives from each university commercialisation group. UniCom has funded dozens of projects to date and is well on its way to generating substantial returns.