Innovations Competition at the Fieldays - entries now open

Entries for 2010 are now open for the annual Innovations Competition at the New Zealand National Agricultural Fieldays. The competition encourages New Zealanders to get creative in the rural sector, by producing new devices, developments and equipment which improve and support farming practice.
Inventors are all vying for the prestigious Golden Standard, the supreme award in innovation worth $5,000. It is no wonder that every year the number and standard of entries increases considerably.
This year organisers have placed significant emphasis on supporting inventors post competition. In previous years entrants may have been ill equipped to explore the commercial possibilities of their inventions. The Fieldays Innovations committee is committed to bridging the gap between the creators and potential investors both locally and internationally; by providing expert guidance on marketing, development, protection and finance of their product. Organisers are intent on going the extra mile for entrants by providing valuable opportunities and mentors for the innovators. Dedicated seminars will be held during Fieldays; allowing innovators to meet with rural business heavyweights and investigate the potential of their creations.
The importance on this initiative is backed by the 2010 Fieldays Premier Feature, Innovation for future profit. To support the Premier Feature, for 2010 the Innovations Centre will be moved to the heart of Fieldays outside the Mystery Creek Pavilion, the competition will also attribute an award based on Innovation for future profit. The Fieldays Innovations Competition features two main categories: the Inventions Category and the Equipment Category. The Inventions section is aimed at the low key, back yard invention, whereas the equipment category is designed for professionals to showcase new and improved designs. Youth are also encouraged to enter, with a specific award of $1000 for under 25’s.
The winners will receive more than the glory and prize money of the award; the media exposure of their invention is invaluable. Armed with the correct tools to make the most out the attention gained, the opportunities are endless.
Entries are now open for the Innovations Competition and will close on 7 May, 2010. There will be an initial judging, and the best of the entries will be displayed in the Innovation Centre at National Agricultural Fieldays 16-19 June, held at Mystery Creek Events Centre, Hamilton. For further information please contact Innovations Coordinator, Gemma Antoniadis on 07 843 4499, email gemmaa@fieldays.co.nz or visit www.fieldays.co.nz.
New Zealand National Agricultural Fieldays will be held 16 to 19 June, 2010 at Mystery Creek Events Centre, ten minutes south of Hamilton. Fieldays is proudly supported by strategic partners; The National Bank and the University of Waikato.