$170M

Capital raised

247

Startups supported

454

New jobs generated

HELPING KIWI STARTUPS GAIN TRACTION AND
GO GLOBAL

POWERED BY

We transform bold visions into thriving, global businesses

We’re here to help you achieve product-market fit, gain commercial traction, generate sustainable revenue and raise capital to fuel your global growth.

Whether you dream of creating the next SaaS unicorn, revolutionising global food production or pioneering new autonomous vehicles, we're here to fuel your ambition.

OUR STARTUP FOUNDER PROGRAMMES 

Startup Aotearoa

STARTUP AOTEAROA

For early-stage founders ready to transform an idea into a thriving startup. Our startup coaches will provide you with FREE one-on-one guidance to transform your idea into an MVP that's ready to test in the real world.
GET STARTED

FOUNDER CATALYST

For ambitious founders solving customer problems on a global scale. You'll partner with our entrepreneurs-in-residence to take your startup from initial MVP to commercial success.
LEARN MORE
Founder Catalyst gave me access to mentors and other founders who helped me develop the skills I needed to run a startup. It was like finding a family of people who have been through similar challenges and are eager to help.
Read on!

ELECTRIFY AOTEAROA

LEADING THE CHARGE FOR WOMAN FOUNDERS

Electrify Aotearoa is a unique event that unites ambitious startup leaders, supporters and investors to fuel the growth of women-led entrepreneurs in New Zealand.

Join us in 2025 a day of inspiration, learning and connection!

JOIN THE WAITLIST
We aim to contribute to sustainable seafood practices, ensuring future generations can continue to rely on this important resource.
Read on!

Business innovation courses

Whether you dream of pioneering your own startup, spearheading innovation within your organisation, or simply want to embrace a mindset of continuous improvement, our short courses will equip you with essential tools, strategies and inspiration to thrive.

Check-out the short courses

Students working with startups

Gain real-world experience working alongside some of the most exciting startup founders and entrepreneurs in New Zealand.

Submit expression of interest

OUR FOUNDATION PARTNERS

We enjoy strong alliances, both locally in Ōtautahi with ChristchurchNZ and the Ara Institute of Canterbury (now part of Te Pūkenga) as well as nationally with Callaghan Innovation. These partnerships have allowed us to maintain physical and virtual hubs for our founders, develop programmes that drive real economic benefit, and create a strong innovation community across Aotearoa.

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Ministry of Awesome is an inclusive community of like-minded individuals that believe in the power of startups.

So, if you're a startup founder, a budding entrepreneur, innovator, investor, student, passionate startup supporter, or just curious about the world of startups - join our 6000-strong community.

We will connect you with interesting people, events and stories from our startup community.