About Startups NZ

StartupsNZ offers the Starting a Business Over 50 Programme.

A customised online startup course for those 50+ seeking to start a business for the first time. StartupsNZ is the trading arm of Univentures Ltd*

How we differ from other startup providers.

  • We offer the only online startup programme customised for the over 50s.

  • Our programme can be taken by anyone, anywhere, anytime.

  • We specialise in working with those over 50 starting a business for the first time.

  • Our programme was designed by entrepreneurs over 50 for entrepreneurs over 50.

  • We offer expert coaches to work 1-to-1 with you throughout the programme.

  • We seek to build a nationwide Startup@50+ Community.

This programme is the only one of its kind in New Zealand. It has pioneered new ground by making access available to anyone, anywhere, anytime in New Zealand. It has been fully tested and trialled as a pilot course and received an excellent evaluation*.

The programme has been designed and developed by a Univentures team (an expert group of Associates), in partnership with online professionals at the University of Canterbury (UCOnline), and with funding from the Office for Seniors.

The mission of StartupsNZ is to “nurture later in life entrepreneurs through customised startup programmes” designed to suit specific needs.

StartupsNZ is also aiming to create an online entrepreneurial collaborative hub for those who have commenced their business journey after our Programme. If you have a passion to build a startup and the drive to make it happen, then the StartupsNZ community is ideal for you.

Our Startup Programme …

  • Is designed specifically for those later in life seeking to launch a startup business for the first time.

  • Takes each participant’s own ‘idea’ right through to starting a new business.

  • Empowers participants through a practical, ‘learn by doing’ approach.

  • Connects participants to expert coaches, mentors and funding opportunities.

  • Introduces new customised tools & templates to meet the needs of those 50.

  • Demystifies entrepreneurship and debunks myths around age and retirement.

  • Is based on research into the needs of the 50+ group and recognition of their unique starting position.

  • Is profesionally designed by experts in an easy to understand online format with expert support available on request.