Top of the South: Nelson Artificial Intelligence Institute
PGF funding application and development of a business case
The Nelson Artificial Intelligence Institute (NAI) was founded by three internationally successful entrepreneurs, Brian Russell, Mark Houghton Brown and Julian Maclaren, who between them have global experience in Silicon Valley, the wider USA and Europe.
The founders are seeking to use their skills in artificial intelligence to support the development of the Top of the South region and add wealth to New Zealand. They see an immediate opportunity to apply AI in the aquatic economy, where it can enable increased productivity and also increase resilience to the threat posed by global warming.
NAI is a centre of excellence, working with research institutes and industry to develop AI tools, and working with tertiary education providers (particularly NMIT) to develop AI-related skills.
We supported NAI in the development of their application for PGF funding and the supporting business case.
Outcome
NAI received Provincial Growth Funding of $3.4m.
Skills
Commercial acumen – presentation of business case to support funding application
Collaboration – with the private sector
Government relations – understanding of the requirements and processes for Government funding
Team
