The New Zealand Tech Alliance is a group of independent technology associations from across New Zealand that work together to ensure a strong voice for technology.
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NZTech Inform – happy holidays from us
In the 43rd and final update for 2019, I thought it was worth a quick review at what has been a busy year. Organisationally, NZTech has continued to grow, welcoming CutlivateIT from Hamilton, the 23rd association into the Tech Alliance. Across this alliance of tech associations we now represent 1,543 members who all believe in the importance of tech for New Zealand’s prosperity. We also celebrated special milestone 10 year membership anniversaries and once again thank our founding members.
Locally, during 2019, we delivered over 100 member events, released 80 media stories into mainstream media, ran six conferences, conducted a dozen roundtable workshops, hosted Ministerial lunches, and hosted Techweek in May, which delivered 564 events across 38 towns in one week!
Internationally, the Tech Alliance team supported agritech delegations to Australia, Ireland and Silicon Valley in the United States of America (USA). Fintech delegations visited Hong Kong, London and Singapore. Our biotech delegation also visited Philadelphia, USA. I also presented on the New Zealand tech ecosystem at conferences in the Netherlands and Singapore.
Meanwhile, building strong tech connections was the theme of my visit to Hong Kong as a guest of their Government.
During the later part of 2019, we have been working very closely with the Government to help build the Industry Transformation Plan (ITP) for the digital technology sector. As we move into 2020, this work will continue to improve the flow of digital skills, tech talent, new digital trade opportunities, Government use and procurement of technology, rapidly emerging tech like AI, economic growth and export and tech’s impact on sustainability.
Looking ahead to 2020, NZTech and the Tech Alliance will continue to connect, promote and advance all things tech. Work will continue to raise New Zealand’s profile as a great place to work, create and export ideas and as a leading digital nation. But first, it’s time for festivities and family fun. Whether you’re at home, travelling or visiting family and friends; relax, enjoy the holidays and stay safe.
Ngā mihi
Graeme Muller
CEO
NZTech
photo credit: https://www.brianscantlebury.com/
Connect
Canterbury Tech next meets on 11 February in Christchurch.
Next year, NZSA will continue to meet on the second Tuesday of the month in Auckland.
Register for Hack Aotearoa; AI in Healthcare, 17-19 January in Auckland.
Promote
Register for MobileTECH Ag 2020 7-8 April in Rotorua. Applications for the 2020 National Fieldays Innovations are now open.
A new global index shows New Zealand is ranked one of Asia Pacific’s fastest emerging fintech hubs. Learn how AI is transforming the sector.
Kōkiri is currently accepting applications for its 2020 programme. It is focused on accelerating early stage Māori led startups. Applications close 2 February.
Advance
Kiwi business women are leading the drive of AI into 2020. The AI Forum has appointed Megan Tapsell as chair and Louise Taylor as deputy chair.
Attend Future Government 2020 on 25 March in Wellington for more on serving New Zealand through a digital public service.
Entries for the NZ Hi-Tech Awards are now open. Save the date for the 2020 awards gala dinner on 22 May in Wellington.
