The Hort Frontiers Pollination Fund aims to enhance and support existing pollinators, and identify the most effective pollination methods for various horticulture crop types.

Pollination is the transfer of pollen grains from one flower to another, and is critical in 60 per cent of agricultural production. It helps the growth of many fruits, vegetables, nut and flower species, and in some instances, can increase crop yield. In Australia, pollination-dependent crops have been estimated to be worth over $4.3 billion per annum, with a direct contribution by honey bees estimated to be over $1.6 billion*.

The fund aims to create a sustainable and resilient horticultural industry through improved pollination options and services. It has three key areas of focus: management of European honey bee; optimisation of crop pollination efficiency; and identifying alternative crop pollinators.

To help in safeguarding the horticulture industry, the fund will identify putting practical measures in place to support honey bee health and identify and develop new pollination opportunities and techniques.

*Hafi et al, 2012

Numerous investments have been made in the Hort Frontiers Pollination Fund – explore these projects below.

Get involved

For potential co-investors, partnering with Hort Innovation provides access to world-class research and the peace of mind of project management by a specialised team well-versed in managing large-scale research and development.

Hort Innovation is always looking for co-investors in the Pollination Fund. If you would like to discuss a co-investment idea we encourage you to contact Tom McCue by phone on 0407 438 258 or by email.

Expert Advisory Panel

The function of the Hort Frontiers Polination Fund Expert Advisory Panel (EAP) is to provide expert advice and oversight of the fund, including providing input into proposed projects/research and recommendations on potential methods to address future gaps or deficiencies in the existing body of research. The panels provide impartial assessment and commercially relevant scrutiny of research proposals, fostering external confidence in Hort Innovation’s ability to rigorously assess, and provide evidence and merit-based recommendations to the Hort Innovation Board.

To provide a framework for advice and decision-making, the Pollination Fund is governed by a document of Co-Investment Strategic Intent (CSI), outlining key investment themes that must be met in order for concepts to be successful. Download the CSI here.