Enhancing innovation and technology transfer in the New Zealand apple industry learnings from Apple Futures

Abstract

Apple Futures was a research implementation project designed to produce export quality ultralow residue apples while meeting the phytosanitary requirements of over 60 countries In 3 years from 2007/08 to 2009/10 seasons it was successfully implemented on 65 of New Zealands export apple crop with a benefitcost ratio of 30 times the value of the investment The process of developing and implementing Apple Futures is the subject of a case study on coinnovation an approach to solving complex problems that engages multiple stakeholders throughout research and extension initiatives to enhance adoption and impact A new innovation system analysis framework was used to identify key coinnovation learnings These included the importance of trust amongst participants learning together a clear agenda for change and monitoring and evaluating progress towards that change agenda Findings are discussed in the context of maximising impact in innovation projects in New Zealands primary sector