Contestable investment processes
Frequently asked questions

Why use a two-stage process?

Having to submit a concept first might seem like an unnecessary extra step but, over all, the two-stage process is designed to reduce the amount of work for applicants (called compliance costs). A lot of time and effort goes into writing and assessing full proposals. We wanted to limit effort to those proposals that have a good chance of being funded.

Why don't you use two-stage processes for all investment areas?

Some of our investment processes need to be completed in a short timeframe, so we do not have time to run the two-stage process.

Do you use the same criteria to assess concepts and proposals?

Yes, we use the same assessment criteria for both concepts and proposals.

Is there a limit to the number of concepts and proposals that an organisation can submit in an investment round?

No, but there is a limit on the amount of funding sought by any one organisation. No organisation can put forward concepts or proposals asking for more money than is available in that portfolio. For example, if we have $6 million to invest in a portfolio, the total research bids from an organisation cannot exceed $6 million.

What happens if it does?

The Foundation will discuss this with you before submission and help you prioritise your bids.

If my concept is successful at stage one, what is the chance my subsequent proposal will be approved?

We are not able to give a guarantee. In many of our annual rounds approximately 50 to 75 percent of proposals will be successful. In each investment area we aim to be assessing proposals that total 150-200% of funds available for investment. This means that for every $1.50 to $2.00 requested we will able to invest $1.00.

Why do you not limit funding requested compared to funding available (overbidding) further at the proposal stage?

Concepts provide limited information compared to proposals. Overbidding gives us flexibility to balance our investments for different areas and purposes to ensure the best overall outcomes for New Zealand.

Do you limit overbidding in one-stage contestable processes too?

No, not unless we run a closed tender. Once again, an organisation cannot submit proposals asking for more than the total amount we have to invest.

Can I resubmit a concept for a previously unsuccessful proposal?

Yes, in certain circumstances, it may be possible to do this.

Can I be exempt from having to submit a concept?

Yes, if your concept is developed from a contract that has received an excellent grade in an independent expert review (such as domain reviews and terminating contract reviews).

In this case, you will be automatically entitled to submit a proposal in the second stage of the process. However, you will need to submit a number of details at the concept stage to assist our administration.

Still have questions? Send us your questions about contestable investment processes to investments@frst.govt.nz.