Latest news with #TePunaUmangaVentureTaranaki
Scoop
29-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Taranaki Events Receive Boost From Government Regional Events Promotion Fund
Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki is thrilled to share that six of the region's major events have received a combined $179,250 in funding through the Government's Regional Events Promotion Fund, announced today by Tourism and Hospitality Hon Minister Louise Upston. This significant investment will support the promotion of the following events: WOMAD Aotearoa - $68,000 Centuria Taranaki Garden Festival - $40,000 Feastival - $22,750 NZ Tattoo and Arts Festival - $21,000 Coastal Five - $20,000 Taste and Tales - $7,500 Taranaki received the third-highest allocation nationally, behind Rotorua New Zealand ($181,750) and Waipa District Council ($180,000), demonstrating the strong appeal and visitor potential of events hosted in our region. "As the Regional Tourism Organisation (RTO) for Taranaki, we're proud to support this process, working alongside local event organisers to submit a compelling regional application," says Brylee Flutey, GM Destination at Venture Taranaki. "The fund is targeted specifically for marketing and promotion, and all six events will now be able to utilise this co-funding to support and extend on their existing promotional plans, aiming to expand their reach and drive additional out-of-region visitation and ticket sales that in-turn, support the wider economy." Each event is required to use the funding between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026, excluding the summer blackout period (25 December - 7 January), and main centres were ineligible from applying to the fund. Suzanne Porter, CEO of TAFT, who presents both WOMAD Aotearoa and the Centuria Taranaki Garden Festival, says this funding enables them to extend the reach and impact of two of the region's most iconic and longstanding events during what has been challenging times. "In a tough economic climate, this kind of support makes a real impact. It helps us continue to deliver festivals that connect communities, attract visitors, and generate cultural and economic benefits for the region," says Porter. Suzanne McCarthy, Event Director for Coastal Five, also welcomed the announcement, "This funding is a game-changer for the Coastal Five. It allows us to significantly increase our national reach, improve the experience for participants, and showcase the very best of Taranaki to runners and their supporters from across the country. We're so proud to deliver an event that not only promotes active lifestyles, but also contributes meaningfully to the local economy and community spirit." "We acknowledge and appreciate the ongoing support from Central Government for regional events, which enables regions like Taranaki to accelerate event growth and visitor attraction, as well as the dedication, resilience, and passion of our event producers who give so much to our event ecosystem and region. We look forward to seeing the impact of this investment in time," concludes Flutey.
Scoop
22-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Taranaki Startups Begin 10-Week Sprint To Scale With PowerUp Accelerator
Press Release – Venture Taranaki The PowerUp Accelerator, an initiative of Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki, the regional development agency, offers a hands-on, founder-focused experience combining mentoring, expert-led workshops, peer support, and direct exposure to capital investors. The PowerUp Accelerator has officially kicked off, with six ambitious founders from across the region now embarking on a high-impact, 10-week journey designed to grow their early-stage ventures into investable, scalable businesses. The PowerUp Accelerator, an initiative of Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki, the regional development agency, offers a hands-on, founder-focused experience combining mentoring, expert-led workshops, peer support, and direct exposure to capital investors. 'This isn't a theory-based programme – it's tailored, practical, and focused on real-world outcomes,' says Jennifer Patterson, General Manager of Economic Development, Venture Taranaki. 'Participants benefit from one-on-one mentoring to unlock their potential, expert sessions to sharpen their business strategy, and the chance to fine-tune their pitch so they're ready to step in front of investors with confidence.' Throughout the programme, founders will also have access to dedicated co-working spaces and take part in regular peer check-ins to build a strong support network with other like-minded entrepreneurs. The Accelerator culminates in a live Showcase Night on 26 June – a pitch event where each participant will present their venture to an audience of investors, industry experts, and potential collaborators. Tickets will be available to the public on 2 June. Those interested can attend online or in person. 'It's a chance to gain valuable feedback, build connections, and create real momentum for their business,' adds Patterson. 'We're really excited to be part of the Accelerator programme and the momentum it brings to RockPool's mission,' said Masina Taulapapa, co-founder of RockPool Collective. ''At RockPool, we're reimagining aged care by connecting senior Kiwis with local families to build thriving intergenerational communities – a fresh and powerful solution to isolation, childcare challenges, and ageing at home.' 'The PowerUp programme gives us the chance to strengthen our business and connect with others who believe in building a more inclusive, intergenerational Aotearoa – an invaluable opportunity at this point in RockPool's journey.' The 2025 cohort reflects the diversity and ingenuity of the region's entrepreneurial ecosystem, with ventures spanning healthcare, aged care, edtech, skincare, and premium beverages. The startups and their hand-picked mentors include: – BOTALLOW: New Zealand's first supplier of premium, cosmetic-grade tallow at scale. Mentored by Nick Carey from Green Meadows Beef. – Elshaw: A natural solution for managing healthcare dressings and patches. Mentored by Glen Stephens from Sol + Sea – ExplainIT: Transformational education tools for those who struggle with numbers. Mentored by Kevin Best from Trackit – Her Strength: A science-based learning platform designed to help young female athletes thrive in sport. Mentored by Letitia Stevenson from Yonder HQ – Rockpool Collective: Reimagining the future of aged care by building intergenerational communities. Mentored by Sandra Julian – Zoa Vodka: International award-winning premium vodka produced exclusively in Taranaki. Mentored by Lindie Meintjes 'The PowerUp Accelerator is part of our wider mahi to strengthen the regions' innovation ecosystem,' says Patterson. 'We're proud to support these founders and help them move from promising ideas to powerful enterprises.' About the PowerUp Accelerator Showcase Event The PowerUp Accelerator Showcase Night is a live pitching event where six of the region's boldest new ventures will present their ideas to investors, industry leaders, and supporters. The night Hosted by Stacey Hitchcock, General Manager of Investment, Venture Taranaki, alongside a special guest speaker, you are sure to be entertained and inspired. Date: Thursday, 26 June 2025 Time: 6:00pm – 8:30pm Venue: The Devon Hotel, New Plymouth Tickets: Available 2 June – $35 to attend in-person, or $15 to view the online stream. About PowerUp PowerUp is a Venture Taranaki initiative. It is a range of support, services and activity focused on fostering and nurturing entrepreneurship and the entrepreneurship ecosystem in Taranaki, to help create smart, connected communities and enterprises. PowerUp is a carefully constructed programme of events and activities, delivered in conjunction with partners, and designed to complement the services and support already on offer by the wider ecosystem. A key objective of PowerUp is to highlight the range of support available for start-ups, entrepreneurs and enterprises across the entire ecosystem, helping to build visibility of the ecosystem itself. Connection and collaboration with the region's institutions, businesses and communities is vital to successfully powering-up the entrepreneurship ecosystem in Taranaki.
Scoop
21-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Taranaki Startups Begin 10-Week Sprint To Scale With PowerUp Accelerator
Press Release – Venture Taranaki The PowerUp Accelerator, an initiative of Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki, the regional development agency, offers a hands-on, founder-focused experience combining mentoring, expert-led workshops, peer support, and direct exposure to capital investors. The PowerUp Accelerator has officially kicked off, with six ambitious founders from across the region now embarking on a high-impact, 10-week journey designed to grow their early-stage ventures into investable, scalable businesses. The PowerUp Accelerator, an initiative of Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki, the regional development agency, offers a hands-on, founder-focused experience combining mentoring, expert-led workshops, peer support, and direct exposure to capital investors. 'This isn't a theory-based programme – it's tailored, practical, and focused on real-world outcomes,' says Jennifer Patterson, General Manager of Economic Development, Venture Taranaki. 'Participants benefit from one-on-one mentoring to unlock their potential, expert sessions to sharpen their business strategy, and the chance to fine-tune their pitch so they're ready to step in front of investors with confidence.' Throughout the programme, founders will also have access to dedicated co-working spaces and take part in regular peer check-ins to build a strong support network with other like-minded entrepreneurs. The Accelerator culminates in a live Showcase Night on 26 June – a pitch event where each participant will present their venture to an audience of investors, industry experts, and potential collaborators. Tickets will be available to the public on 2 June. Those interested can attend online or in person. 'It's a chance to gain valuable feedback, build connections, and create real momentum for their business,' adds Patterson. 'We're really excited to be part of the Accelerator programme and the momentum it brings to RockPool's mission,' said Masina Taulapapa, co-founder of RockPool Collective. ''At RockPool, we're reimagining aged care by connecting senior Kiwis with local families to build thriving intergenerational communities – a fresh and powerful solution to isolation, childcare challenges, and ageing at home.' 'The PowerUp programme gives us the chance to strengthen our business and connect with others who believe in building a more inclusive, intergenerational Aotearoa – an invaluable opportunity at this point in RockPool's journey.' The 2025 cohort reflects the diversity and ingenuity of the region's entrepreneurial ecosystem, with ventures spanning healthcare, aged care, edtech, skincare, and premium beverages. The startups and their hand-picked mentors include: – BOTALLOW: New Zealand's first supplier of premium, cosmetic-grade tallow at scale. Mentored by Nick Carey from Green Meadows Beef. – Elshaw: A natural solution for managing healthcare dressings and patches. Mentored by Glen Stephens from Sol + Sea – ExplainIT: Transformational education tools for those who struggle with numbers. Mentored by Kevin Best from Trackit – Her Strength: A science-based learning platform designed to help young female athletes thrive in sport. Mentored by Letitia Stevenson from Yonder HQ – Rockpool Collective: Reimagining the future of aged care by building intergenerational communities. Mentored by Sandra Julian – Zoa Vodka: International award-winning premium vodka produced exclusively in Taranaki. Mentored by Lindie Meintjes 'The PowerUp Accelerator is part of our wider mahi to strengthen the regions' innovation ecosystem,' says Patterson. 'We're proud to support these founders and help them move from promising ideas to powerful enterprises.' About the PowerUp Accelerator Showcase Event The PowerUp Accelerator Showcase Night is a live pitching event where six of the region's boldest new ventures will present their ideas to investors, industry leaders, and supporters. The night Hosted by Stacey Hitchcock, General Manager of Investment, Venture Taranaki, alongside a special guest speaker, you are sure to be entertained and inspired. Date: Thursday, 26 June 2025 Time: 6:00pm – 8:30pm Venue: The Devon Hotel, New Plymouth Tickets: Available 2 June – $35 to attend in-person, or $15 to view the online stream. About PowerUp PowerUp is a Venture Taranaki initiative. It is a range of support, services and activity focused on fostering and nurturing entrepreneurship and the entrepreneurship ecosystem in Taranaki, to help create smart, connected communities and enterprises. PowerUp is a carefully constructed programme of events and activities, delivered in conjunction with partners, and designed to complement the services and support already on offer by the wider ecosystem. A key objective of PowerUp is to highlight the range of support available for start-ups, entrepreneurs and enterprises across the entire ecosystem, helping to build visibility of the ecosystem itself. Connection and collaboration with the region's institutions, businesses and communities is vital to successfully powering-up the entrepreneurship ecosystem in Taranaki.
Scoop
21-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Taranaki Startups Begin 10-Week Sprint To Scale With PowerUp Accelerator
The PowerUp Accelerator has officially kicked off, with six ambitious founders from across the region now embarking on a high-impact, 10-week journey designed to grow their early-stage ventures into investable, scalable businesses. The PowerUp Accelerator, an initiative of Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki, the regional development agency, offers a hands-on, founder-focused experience combining mentoring, expert-led workshops, peer support, and direct exposure to capital investors. "This isn't a theory-based programme - it's tailored, practical, and focused on real-world outcomes," says Jennifer Patterson, General Manager of Economic Development, Venture Taranaki. "Participants benefit from one-on-one mentoring to unlock their potential, expert sessions to sharpen their business strategy, and the chance to fine-tune their pitch so they're ready to step in front of investors with confidence." Throughout the programme, founders will also have access to dedicated co-working spaces and take part in regular peer check-ins to build a strong support network with other like-minded entrepreneurs. The Accelerator culminates in a live Showcase Night on 26 June - a pitch event where each participant will present their venture to an audience of investors, industry experts, and potential collaborators. Tickets will be available to the public on 2 June. Those interested can attend online or in person. "It's a chance to gain valuable feedback, build connections, and create real momentum for their business," adds Patterson. "We're really excited to be part of the Accelerator programme and the momentum it brings to RockPool's mission," said Masina Taulapapa, co-founder of RockPool Collective. '"At RockPool, we're reimagining aged care by connecting senior Kiwis with local families to build thriving intergenerational communities - a fresh and powerful solution to isolation, childcare challenges, and ageing at home." "The PowerUp programme gives us the chance to strengthen our business and connect with others who believe in building a more inclusive, intergenerational Aotearoa - an invaluable opportunity at this point in RockPool's journey." The 2025 cohort reflects the diversity and ingenuity of the region's entrepreneurial ecosystem, with ventures spanning healthcare, aged care, edtech, skincare, and premium beverages. The startups and their hand-picked mentors include: - BOTALLOW: New Zealand's first supplier of premium, cosmetic-grade tallow at scale. Mentored by Nick Carey from Green Meadows Beef. - Elshaw: A natural solution for managing healthcare dressings and patches. Mentored by Glen Stephens from Sol + Sea - ExplainIT: Transformational education tools for those who struggle with numbers. Mentored by Kevin Best from Trackit - Her Strength: A science-based learning platform designed to help young female athletes thrive in sport. Mentored by Letitia Stevenson from Yonder HQ - Rockpool Collective: Reimagining the future of aged care by building intergenerational communities. Mentored by Sandra Julian - Zoa Vodka: International award-winning premium vodka produced exclusively in Taranaki. Mentored by Lindie Meintjes "The PowerUp Accelerator is part of our wider mahi to strengthen the regions' innovation ecosystem," says Patterson. "We're proud to support these founders and help them move from promising ideas to powerful enterprises." About the PowerUp Accelerator Showcase Event The PowerUp Accelerator Showcase Night is a live pitching event where six of the region's boldest new ventures will present their ideas to investors, industry leaders, and supporters. The night Hosted by Stacey Hitchcock, General Manager of Investment, Venture Taranaki, alongside a special guest speaker, you are sure to be entertained and inspired. Date: Thursday, 26 June 2025 Time: 6:00pm - 8:30pm Venue: The Devon Hotel, New Plymouth Tickets: Available 2 June - $35 to attend in-person, or $15 to view the online stream. About PowerUp PowerUp is a Venture Taranaki initiative. It is a range of support, services and activity focused on fostering and nurturing entrepreneurship and the entrepreneurship ecosystem in Taranaki, to help create smart, connected communities and enterprises. PowerUp is a carefully constructed programme of events and activities, delivered in conjunction with partners, and designed to complement the services and support already on offer by the wider ecosystem. A key objective of PowerUp is to highlight the range of support available for start-ups, entrepreneurs and enterprises across the entire ecosystem, helping to build visibility of the ecosystem itself. Connection and collaboration with the region's institutions, businesses and communities is vital to successfully powering-up the entrepreneurship ecosystem in Taranaki.
Scoop
13-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Venture Taranaki Launches New Platform To Connect Students And Teachers With STEM Learning Experiences
Press Release – Venture Taranaki STEM Outreach Experiences supports a locally relevant curriculum that taps into the wealth of industries and experts that our region already has to offer. Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki, the regional development agency, is proud to announce the launch of the STEM Outreach Experiences platform, part of the Taranaki Applied Innovation Centre. Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education in the region, and New Zealand, is facing challenges relating to quality, reach, and student interest in STEM subjects. Supported by the TOI Foundation, New Plymouth District Council, and Taranaki Regional Council, the user-friendly website provides a central point for Taranaki educators to access engaging learning opportunities to enhance their lesson plans. 'A prosperous future for Taranaki starts in our schools, where tomorrow's innovators are beginning their journey into STEM careers. We know that the best learning happens when students can connect it to the world around them to see how it affects their lives now and in the future,' said Thom Adams, Innovation Lead at Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki. STEM Outreach Experiences supports a locally relevant curriculum that taps into the wealth of industries and experts that our region already has to offer. 'The opportunity to engage with enthusiastic experts who want to share their knowledge is sometimes all it takes to encourage a student to consider a career path in STEM,' adds Adams. 'We're confident that everyone in Taranaki has something to contribute to the growth of our rangatahi, all they need to do is get involved'. Teachers can use the online platform to find organisations offering STEM outreach for their next lesson, or contact the Taranaki Applied Innovation Centre for curriculum support. 'For us, having an expert working with our kids has been a game changer,' said Kim Gillanders, CEO and Lead Educator at The Head Office, a charitable organisation advocating for the diverse and complex learning needs of neurodiverse children. 'We get a chance to see a specialist in action, which helps our students get a new perspective on the world. You hear a certain tone in a young person's voice, and see a sparkle in their eye, and you think, 'wow, there it is, they're fully engaged in learning''. Alongside this service comes support for Taranaki businesses wanting to get involved in school outreach to develop exciting lessons alongside our experienced educators. 'Whether it's growing flowers or launching rockets, these experiences can be what starts a student on a life-long passion,' concludes Adams Educators, kura / schools are encouraged to contact Thom@ for more information and to get involved. About the Taranaki Applied Innovation Centre The Taranaki Applied Innovation Centre is designed to connect, enable, develop, and accelerate the science and technology sector in Taranaki through the establishment of a dedicated science hub. As part of the Taranaki Regional Economic Development Strategy, Tapuae Roa, this strategic project led by Venture Taranaki positions Taranaki as a highly desirable region for researchers, entrepreneurs, and startups.
