V.RMH.0011 - Hargraves Institute FY 26 content development, delivery of the MLA Co-Innovation Program modules

Summary

MLA supports innovation across the red meat sector by co-funding innovation managers for a term of up to five years. To improve the performance of these managers, MLA requires a qualified service provider to develop content, plan and deliver four network meetings (digital and face-to-face), and conduct surveys of program performance for MLA.

Objectives

Hargraves Institute was contracted to develop content, plan and deliver up to four network meetings (digital and face to face), and conduct surveys of program performance to support MLA Co-Innovation Managers succeed in their role. The areas addressed included:

1.    innovation behaviours
2.    negotiation
3.    business improvement processes
4.    speed.

Key findings

Based on the findings of the project, the conclusions were:

1. The Co-Innovation program remains a supportive tool for implementing innovation process in participating companies.
2. The Co-Innovation program funding facilitates higher level and more impactful outcomes 
from innovation projects.
3. The Co-Innovation program lifts the level of innovation both within companies and across 
the industry.
4. The capability development focus is instrumental in lifting capability and driving innovation 
in companies.
5. MLA input and support is highly valued.

Benefits to industry

Based on the group's feedback and priorities, it is recommended that the professional development program continue on a quarterly basis.

MLA action

It is recommended that each session incorporate latest industry research and insights, presented by an MLA representative, a provider, or a current or past Co-Innovation Manager. This would be especially valuable in the online sessions.

MLA will:

- Continue and expand the program, and the scope of the Co-Innovation Manager role.
- Maintain the diversity of companies and the external focus of companies in the program.

Future research

The Co-Innovation Capability Development program is to be retained with quarterly sessions, two short online catch ups and two longer face-to-face sessions.
Participants are to be invited to co-create the curriculum to ensure that it meaningfully addresses their learning needs and working context.