21 December 2023 Lincoln University and Ballance Agri-Nutrients join forces to drive agricultural innovation in NZ

The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki Lincoln University and Ballance Agri-Nutrients (Ballance) is a significant milestone that underscores a joint commitment to advancing new and better farming and growing practices in New Zealand’s agricultural sector.

Both Lincoln University and Ballance share a common vision of a prosperous, sustainable, and innovative future for New Zealand's primary industries. By joining forces, they aim to drive positive change for Kiwi farmers and growers, ensuring they remain profitable and sustainable while meeting the increasing expectations of consumers, both in New Zealand and around the world.

Climate change has brought a pressing need for rapid and effective solutions, especially in areas like greenhouse gas emissions, carbon farming, and carbon sequestration. Lincoln and Ballance are committed to tackling these challenges head-on, as well as promoting on-farm diversification and adapting to climate-impacted land use changes. By addressing these challenges collaboratively both Lincoln and Ballance can contribute significantly to the resilience and sustainability of New Zealand’s primary industry and support industry aspirations such as the Fonterra Climate Roadmap.

Lincoln University’s Provost, Professor Chad Hewitt says the agreement establishes a framework for ongoing collaboration, with a focus on identifying and prioritising opportunities for joint projects.

“These opportunities include improving planning and co-ordination, conducting research and demonstrations on Lincoln University’s farms and enhancing environmental stewardship.

“ The collaboration also seeks to foster innovation, commercialisation, and promotion of the agricultural sector to the public and policy makers.”

One key aspect of this partnership is that it creates a foundation for ongoing and future collaboration with the University says Dr Stuart Kay, Innovation Leader at Ballance Agri-Nutrients.

"We believe this collaboration will have a positive impact on our industry and will strengthen our connections with universities while showcasing our commitment to innovation and sustainability.

“We are keen to continue our journey of innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, and look forward to the positive impact it will bring to New Zealand's farming and agriculture sector.”

Key highlights of the partnership:

• Agriculture research and commercialisation: combining the expertise of Lincoln University and Ballance bringing together two organisations with a solid history of agricultural research and innovation.
• Closer to the R&D hub: Lincoln University boasts a strong research and development hub with CRIs such as AgResearch, Plant & Food Research and Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research. This collaboration will improve Ballance’s access to valuable expertise and resources.
• Intern programme: Ballance's intern programme draws significantly from Lincoln University, making this partnership an excellent opportunity to build closer relationships with the next generation of agricultural leaders, and further establishing the company as a place for agricultural talent to grow.

For media enquiries email media@lincoln.ac.nz or phone 03 325 3827