IMPACTFUL INNOVATION SPOTLIGHT

Applications Closed

WHAT IS THE IMPACTFUL INNOVATION SPOTLIGHT?

a platform to showcase INNOVATIVE ideas

You could be one of just 8 start-ups pitching your vision to a room full of people who can bring it to life, from international and local investors, to deep-tech experts and fellow founders.

Whether you’re developing a groundbreaking product or still shaping your idea, the Spotlight is open to early-stage start-ups and individuals alike.

Enter for the chance to win all-access tickets and take the stage at Impactful Innovation 2025.

Applications Closed

What can I win?

The Prize

The judging panel will select 8 winners, who will each win: 

  • One all-access ticket to the Impactful Innovation 2025 Conference.*

  • A dedicated 5-minute slot to pitch your idea to a room of investors, potential partners, customers, and industry experts.

  • Promotion and exposure through the conference and its marketing channels.

*Flights and associated travel costs excluded  

WHAT DO I Need to enter?

THE REQUIREMENTS

Create a 60-second video featuring an elevator pitch that communicates your unique value proposition and the potential global impact of your idea.

Submit a brief description (max. 250 words) of your start up that we may use to introduce you on our marketing channels.

Submissions must be in English, and please do not include any confidential information within the submission.

Applications Closed

Key Dates 

Submissions Open: Jun 20th 
Submissions Close: 12pm, September 24th
Winners Advised: 10am, September 25th
Impactful Innovation ‘25: October 20th

Eligibility Requirements 

This competition is open to to early-stage deep tech ideas that could become global ventures, or fully realised ventures looking to take the next step in their journeys.

  • You must be (mostly) based in NZ.

  • The idea or venture must involve technological or scientific advancement.

  • Had revenue of less than NZ$2 million in the last year (pre-revenue is OK also).

Judging Criteria 

A panel of experts will review the submission based on the following criteria: 

Innovation: The uniqueness and novelty of the idea
Market: The scalability and potential market demand 
Impact: The potential positive global impact 
Presentation: The clarity and quality of the video pitch

Terms and Conditions 

By submitting an entry, you consent to BVNZ publishing the entry on public and social media channels. 

Costs associated with conference attendance (e.g. transportation and accommodation) are not included in the prize.

Applications Closed