Lincoln University has announced it will be taking full ownership of Blinc Innovation (He Puna Karikari), following an agreement by the directors and partners of the entity.

Formerly known as the Lincoln Hub, Blinc Innovation was established in May last year to provide collaborative opportunities for the partner organisations in the Lincoln Science Precinct. The partners include Lincoln University, AgResearch, DairyNZ, Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research, and Plant and Food Research.

Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Bruce McKenzie said that since its inception, Blinc had worked with leading organisations and researchers to solve some of the biggest challenges facing the food and agricultural industries.

Collaborations have included research and postgraduate education, increased industry engagement and an incubator that houses innovative agribusiness start-ups, he said.

“Taking ownership will be beneficial for Lincoln, as Blinc forms an important part of our wider stakeholder engagement programme.

“The entity is very successful at organising networking opportunities and increasing the innovation network at Lincoln. Blinc is invaluable to Lincoln for industry access and collaboration.”

Professor McKenzie said the university was committed to increasing activities with business partners on campus to ensure a vibrant, integrated experience.

“Collaboration will continue to be key, with all partners to be engaged in the future networking activities at Blinc.”

Before shareholders had made the decision, Blinc Innovation chief executive Toni Laming resigned from the Lincoln Precinct Innovation Hub to be closer to family in Auckland and take up a new role as Executive Director Business Units for Uniservices.

Lincoln University will take full ownership of Blinc Innovation from 30 November 2019, continuing to run the entity and employ its current staff.

Source:  Lincoln University