Back in 2012 New Zealand was ranked the 13th most innovative economy in the world, in the 2026 survey we rank 24th
Source Global Innovation Index 2026. WIPO.
Since 2021, we've been creating opportunities for people, businesses and young people to connect, learn, innovate and turn ideas into action.
Through initiatives such as our Youth and Adult Shark Tanks, Business Innovation Series, Counties Energy Innovation Fund and Mobile Innovation Lab, we're bringing innovation into schools, businesses and communities across Franklin — while working alongside the people and organisations who want to see our region thrive.
Because creating a more innovative Franklin isn't something one organisation can do alone. It takes businesses, schools, iwi, government, community and individuals coming together, sharing ideas and creating opportunities.
And this is just the beginning.
Our long-term vision is to see an Innovation Precinct established in Franklin — a place where education, business, technology and ideas can come together, creating a home for collaboration, learning and innovation.
Innovation Franklin is a registered charity (Charity Number: CC60469) committed to positioning New Zealand for the future.
Franklin has a strong and distinctive identity, built through its people, businesses, industries and communities. We value that history and the strengths that have shaped the region, while also looking ahead to the opportunities that will shape its future.
As Franklin continues to grow and change, new ideas, technologies, businesses and industries are becoming an increasingly important part of our region.
Source Global Innovation Index 2026. WIPO.
Creating opportunities
We create opportunities for young people, businesses and the wider community to explore innovation, develop ideas and turn possibilities into action.
Connecting people
We bring together businesses, schools, education, iwi, government and community to share ideas, build relationships and create opportunities for Franklin
Growing innovation
Through initiatives like Youth Shark Tank, Adult Shark Tank, the Business Innovation Series, Innovation Fund and Mobile Innovation Lab, we're helping make innovation more accessible across Franklin.
Building what's next
We're continuing to grow our programmes, partnerships and reach, creating more opportunities for people and businesses across Franklin to learn, connect and innovate.
Our vision for the future
Longer term, we want to see an Innovation Precinct established in Franklin — a place where people, education, business, technology and ideas can come together.
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