/ skunkworks
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Definition: Skunkworks refers to a small, loosely structured team within a larger organization that is given high autonomy and is tasked with working on innovative or experimental projects, often in secret. The goal is to bypass bureaucracy and accelerate development.
The term originated from Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works® division, which developed advanced aircraft under tight secrecy and fast timelines.
In business and tech, it’s now broadly used to describe: (a) Innovation labs or stealth projects, (b) Startups-within-companies, (c) Agile, high-trust R&D teams.
It implies a focus on speed, creativity, and minimal red tape.
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Find photos of our skunkworks/innovation lab in Warkworth, New Zealand below.