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Category Definition: Deep Tech (science, hardware, advanced engineering, AI with uncertainty + experiments)
Category Examples: biotech diagnostics, medtech devices, advanced manufacturing, climate tech, aerospace, clean tech
Why it Matters: Deep tech is almost always R&D eligible
5-Stage Pathway: R&D YES
Do This First: Book a free session with your RBP Growth Advisor.
(⚠️ Regional Business Partner (RBP) registration is required for most grants.)
Stage | What to Do | Programs & Links | Why It Matters |
1. Setup & Entry | Formalise, connect with advisors | Entry to ecosystem
⚠️ RBP registration required for many grants | |
2. Early Validation | Test feasibility, protect IP | Proves tech + market potential
⚠️ Co-funding (60%) required for R&D grants
⚠️ NZ-based R&D activity required | |
3. Pre-Scale | Build prototypes, hire talent | Move from lab to prototype
Access networks + advisory | |
4. Scale & Capital Raise | Secure capital, expand markets | Fuels scaling
⚠️ NZGCP requires lead investor
⚠️ NZEC reduces export risk | |
5. Ongoing Support | Sustain innovation long-term | Supports reinvestment
Long-term innovation funding |
⚠️ R&D ≠ Deep Tech (in VC Terms)
Government R&D eligibility is about whether your work meets a legal/technical definition — solving scientific or technological uncertainties with a systematic approach.
Venture capitalists, on the other hand, use deep tech to mean something narrower:
- Deep Tech (VC lens) = high-bar science and engineering companies (e.g. biotech, advanced materials, robotics, climate science, aerospace). They usually require long development timelines, capital intensity, and defensible IP.
- R&D (Gov’t lens) = much broader. A novel AI algorithm, a new data-processing approach, or an advanced manufacturing process can all count as R&D — even if they wouldn’t be pitched as “deep tech” to VCs.
- You might qualify for Callaghan grants or the R&D Tax Incentive even if deep tech VCs wouldn’t call you “deep tech.”
- Don’t let VC terminology stop you from applying for support — assess by the R&D tests, not just the investor label.
Why it matters:
Case Studies: R&D YES
🧬 Biotech Diagnostic Startup
🤖 Agricultural Robotics Company
🌏 Climate Tech Packaging Startup
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