The three shortlisted proposals are:

• New Zealand Institute of Viticulture and Oenology, Marlborough, led by New Zealand Winegrowers;
• Centre for Space Science Technology, Central Otago, led by Bodeker Scientific;
• Earth+Vantage, Southland, led by Venture Southland.

Regional Research Institutes are to be new centres developed in areas outside of Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch that help build research and development intensity and lift innovation in key industries.

Cabinet will make its final decision on establishing new institutes toward the end of the year.

For more information, visit the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment website.