$3m boost for industries

Projects ranging from furniture design to biotechnology got a $3 million boost yesterday.

The projects will get the money - over three years - as part of the Government's growth and innovation framework policy, which has identified biotechnology, information technology and the creative industries as areas with growth potential.

The new projects include:

* Design-led futures - a project involving Fisher & Paykel and Methven, which will see Victoria University design students designing new product concepts.

* ICT (Information and Communications Technology) Professionals for the future - a collaboration between professional bodies, industry associations and industry and tertiary education organisations to turn out technically skilled, entrepreneurial graduates.

* Design for the Timber Furniture Industry - a programme that aims to produce graduates closely linked with timber furniture industries.

* Biotechnology Sector Education Programme - courses aimed to improve the business performance of the biotechnology sector by improving the skills of management and other employees.

* Identification of future design needs for fashion and textile businesses - a collaboration between fashion and textile design industries and tertiary education providers.

- NZPA