Regions will be in competition to establish one of up to three new privately led institutes being established over the next four to five years.
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is leading the workshops, a Government policy which was announced in the Budget to establish regional research institutes around New Zealand.
The Government allowed $25million over three years to support the policy.
A South Canterbury workshop will be held today and one in Otago will be held on September 21.
Centres outside of Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch are eligible to apply.
Since New Zealand First leader Winston Peters won the former National Party stronghold of Northland in a by-election, the Government has become more focused on the way regional New Zealand feels about the money being poured into Christchurch and Auckland at its expense.
Science and Innovation Minister Steven Joyce said the new institutes were proposed in order to stimulate leading edge, commercially focused and industry relevant research in regional New Zealand.
The institutes would help grow innovation and competitiveness by making the most of local industry, technology and economic opportunities.
''Our regional economies have different resources and strengths. These new institutes will deliver research that is of value to businesses, which will in turn create new jobs and lift incomes.''
For New Zealand to succeed, an economy was needed where all regions were able to make the most of their competitive advantage, Mr Joyce said.
Timeline
September-October: Regional workshops held around New Zealand.
October-December: Registration or interest process.
February-April: Business case development.
May 2016: MBIE panel final recommendations.
