Kiwibank Launches Game-Changing Startup Funding
Kiwibank is stepping up to change the game – building a financial ecosystem that empowers startups, unlocks opportunity, and fosters sustainable business growth for New Zealand.
Kiwibank StartUp+ launches today as a market-first funding solution designed specifically for startups. This initiative is about more than capital; it's about providing tailored support that grows alongside Kiwi businesses.
Elliot Smith, Chief Customer Officer - Business, acknowledges that banking has historically missed the mark for startups – but that's changing now.
'Startups don't fit into traditional lending models, and we recognised the need for a more tailored and flexible approach that genuinely supports early-stage businesses. This is us challenging the status quo to better serve these businesses and it's exactly the kind of innovation that will strengthen the startup economy.
"Startup founders deserve financial solutions that work with them, not against them. They wear many different hats each day, and the financial decisions can sometimes feel daunting, so we're making funding simple, easy and accessible to help them unlock their potential early.
"Kiwibank StartUp+ is designed to evolve alongside businesses, creating a foundation for sustainable growth so entrepreneurs can focus on what matters – building something great."
Designed for the fast-paced nature of early-stage businesses, Kiwibank StartUp+ provides progress-based funding, structured to support startups at each stage of their journey without the usual barriers. This solution adapts to the needs of growing businesses, ensuring they receive the right support when they need it most.
Kiwibank's General Manager of Business Banking, Joanna Greaves explains the move reflects Kiwibank's accelerating momentum in the business sector.
'We're backing Kiwi businesses at pace and that's evident in our faster than market growth. We've accounted for 25% of all business lending in New Zealand last year, giving us a good feel for what Kiwi businesses need right now.
'Launching Kiwibank StartUp+ is a leap forward in building the funding landscape New Zealand needs to stay competitive, innovative and resilient,' Greaves adds.
Ministry of Awesome - Electrify Chairwoman, Marian Johnson explains Kiwibank's move shows what's possible when traditional institutions evolve with the times.
'Startups face complex challenges that traditional funding models simply don't account for. It's exciting to see our New Zealand-owned bank step up with something truly fit-for-use. This is what happens when major institutions act with agility and purpose. It's the kind of support that can transform our entrepreneurial ecosystem,' says Johnson.
The programme will launch as a pilot in partnership with the Ministry of Awesome and feedback from participating businesses will shape the future of the initiative, ensuring it continues to meet the evolving needs of startup businesses.
For more information about Kiwibank StartUp+, including eligibility details, visit www.kiwibank.co.nz/startup-plus.
About Kiwibank
Kiwibank is a purpose-led organisation that has modern, Kiwi values at heart and keeps Kiwi money where it belongs – right here in New Zealand. As a Kiwi bank, with more than a million customers, our trusted experts are focused on supporting Kiwi with their home ownership aspirations and backing local business ambitions, so together we can thrive here in Aotearoa and on the world stage. Kiwibank is the #1 bank in Kantar's 2025 Corporate Reputation Index and the only bank in the top 15. To find out more about Kiwibank visit www.kiwibank.co.nz.
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