TURN YOUR BIG IDEA INTO A THRIVING STARTUP

Building a startup is hard - but you're not in it alone.

Startup Aotearoa connects you with the right people and support to grow your idea into something extraordinary.

Early-stage entrepreneurs often ask:

  • I have an idea—but where do I start?
  • Is the problem I'm solving unique?
  • Can my idea actually scale?
  • How can I fund my venture?

Startup Aotearoa is here to help you answer these questions—and take your next step.

 
1800

EARLY-STAGE ENTREPRENEURS SUPPORTED

 
 
People often think empathy is soft, but it’s a proven driver of innovation. When people can see and respond to each other’s perspectives, they’re more open to trying new things and solving hard problems.”

Craig Pethybridge, Emplify

The goal is to create a flexible, community-driven service that truly adapts to what modern families need. With coaching we narrowed our focus, enabling us to bring a testable prototype to market within a month."

Haylee Killip, NOD

I've definitely met a lot of influential people in the New Zealand agriculture space by just having a conversation or an introduction.”

Hamish Vollebregt, Volly Solutions

We knew the product we wanted to build, test, and iterate on. We had an idea of how to earn money. Now I was thinking about how to get the support around me to make this go off.”

Bailey Lenart, World Changing Business

Startup or small business: which one am I building?

High Growth Startups

Startups are built for rapid growth. They create something new—like breakthrough tech, disruptive business models, or bold solutions to old problems. Think AI-powered health tools or fintech apps transforming how we manage money. Startups aim to scale fast, raise capital, and lead industry change.

Need help building your startup? 

Small-to-Medium Business

SMBs deliver trusted products or services to local or niche markets. They grow steadily, prioritising stability and profitability. From specialist service providers to online stores, SMBs are the backbone of Aotearoa’s economy—creating jobs, supporting communities, and driving everyday business.

Looking to grow your small business?