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Overview
This premier research-in-action award supports research projects and initiatives in Taranaki. It offers an opportunity to realise the remarkable potential of the Taranaki agriculture, horticulture and veterinary sectors.
Value
Each project can receive up to $35,000. The total funding awarded each year is $100,000. The value of the Award is not subject to GST, inclusive or otherwise.
Bashford-Nicholls Trust and Massey contribute an equal share to the award fund.
Timeline
You can find more information about the 2026 timeline in the Guidelines for Applicants document below.
May, Applications open
Applications for the Pivot Award open on Monday, 25 May 2026.
June, Massey researchers online information sessions
Online information sessions will be held during June and July.
If you would like to attend any of the Massey University information sessions, please email researchsystems@massey.ac.nz
July, Taranaki stakeholder workshops
Taranaki stakeholder workshops will be held on 15 July.
If you would like to attend the Taranaki connections workshops, please email researchsystems@massey.ac.nz
Aug, Draft proposals deadline
27 August: Deadline for sending draft proposals to Massey's Research Development Advisor.
Sept, Final applications deadline and shortlisting
Before 5pm on Thursday, 10 September: Deadline for submitting final applications.
Late September: Assessment Committee shortlisting meeting.
Oct, Q&A session and final decision announced
Mid-October: Q and A session for short-listed applications.
Final decision announced.
Late October: Applicants will be notified of the committee's final funding decisions.
2027, Funding available
Early January: Funding will be available to the successful applicants.
Applying for the award
The ideal project will leverage the research results and the skills and experience of Taranaki stakeholders for creative solutions and positive action to benefit both Massey researchers and the region. Projects are co-led by a Massey University researcher and a Taranaki-based partner.
Applicant eligibility criteria
Applications are open to eligible Massey researchers and Taranaki organisations, industry, community groups and individuals.
- Massey University researchers who wish to undertake projects to apply their research knowledge and expertise alongside an organisation, industry group, community group or individual in the Taranaki region where there is clear ‘regional fit’ and value for Taranaki.
- Organisations or individuals seeking to work with Massey University researchers to develop economic, social or environmental benefits for the Taranaki region.
Application form
The Project Proposal Form will be available in mid-May.
Applications should be no more than 5 pages, excluding the Curriculum Vitae. Email the completed form to researchsystems@massey.ac.nz
Draft proposals due 27 August 2026. Applications close at 5pm on 10 September 2026.
Previous winners
2026
2026
Reducing the impact of leptospirosis on rural communities in Taranaki
Massey University Molecular Epidemiology and Public Health Laboratory (mEpiLab) is leading a major initiative to better understand and combat leptospirosis in Taranaki farming communities. This project aims to identify regional strains and assess risks to improve health and safety outcomes.
The Green Loop project aims to turn food waste into living soil
A team of scientists from Sustainable Taranaki and Massey are investigating whether food waste can be turned into a safe and reliable compost suitable for agriculture and horticulture.
Massey News: Pivot funding awarded to Taranaki focused research projects
2025
2025
Terroir Taranaki
Testing the power of sensory consumer science in distinguishing Taranaki crops and value-add products for market advantage.
He Rau o Rongo: He Maramataka mō Taranaki.
The project aims to revive maramataka (Māori lunar calendar) knowledge in Taranaki, with a focus on sustainable practices related to food sovereignty and health.
Evaluating bio-concretes for farm infrastructure applications
This project aims to evaluate the use of bio-concretes, concrete alternatives made from locally-grown agricultural materials such as hemp, in farm infrastructure and buildings.
Media Links
Massey News: Three Massey-led projects receive Pivot Award funding
2020 to 2022
2020 to 2022
2022 – Measuring impacts of regenerative agriculture
Massey University is working alongside the Taranaki Regenerative Agriculture community to measure on-farm and environmental benefits of innovations to improve their farms environmental health, resilience and prosperity.
2021 – The Juniper Berry
The Juniper Berry is the focus of Massey's research to evaluate and identify suitable strains and propagation methods with the potential to give New Zealand-made gins a unique sensory signature.
The project will also explore the potential for other uses of juniper berries, including in meat and pickle flavouring and pharmaceutical uses.
Media links
2020 – Farming to Flourish
This project investigated the role of small-scale growers and regenerative food networks in creating sustainable livelihoods and generating thriving communities in Taranaki. The network of localised food chains, Farm Next Door (FND), led by urban farmer Carl Freeman, was central to the research.
Media links
Contact us
For questions about the award process or these guidelines, contact the Award Secretary.
If you would like to provide connections between Massey researchers or interested parties in Taranaki, contact the Award Secretary or Eve Kawana-Brown, Business Development Manager.