A recent scan of ecosystem actors across Oceania shows that the industrial hemp industry is gathering real momentum in both Australia and New Zealand, mirroring trends around the world where hemp is re-emerging as a cornerstone of sustainable and circular economies. Businesses are emerging across the value chain, backed by growing interest and support from governments, researchers, communities, and not-for-profits. Globally, these efforts are connected by an urgent search for sustainable, circular alternatives in construction, agriculture, textiles, and more.

New Zealand is developing a vibrant Cluster and Innovation Ecosystem Community under the umbrella of Economic Development New Zealand (EDNZ), led by experienced strategy and innovation consultant Dale Pearce (previously Head of five clusters at Christchurch NZ). This community of practice connects people working across clusters, innovation hotspots and entrepreneurial ecosystems to share insights, surface common barriers, and test new ways of working. Drawing on Dale’s work with multiple clusters and sectors, the initiative is introducing new capabilities designed to accelerate the success of clusters and innovation ecosystems and to evolve the traditional cluster model into something more dynamic and mission-driven.

When asked about the future of Australia’s agrifood sector, Dr James Krahe, CEO of Future Food Systems CRC (FFS), points directly to the importance of innovation ecosystems. For him, the sector’s future will be shaped less by forecasts or bold predictions and more by the long-term work of cultivating collaboration and learning.