AUT has always been a place where breaking new ground and challenging the norm is part of our identity. Innovation is in our institutional DNA, and that can bring opportunities for commercialising bright ideas.
Today, there are several options for AUT’s budding entrepreneurs and innovators to explore their first steps towards business success. Initiatives like the Idea2Impact Programme and Vision to Venture event series have supported many postgraduate innovators in 2024. Read on for details of how you can get involved in 2025!
Idea2Impact Programme
AUT is offering a pathway to research commercialisation through the new Idea2Impact programme. Launched in October 2024, this six-week initiative guides a cohort of postgrad students through the process of turning your research into practical, market-ready solutions. Participants gain a deep understanding of commercialisation, helping you move from idea to impact.
Early feedback has been very positive, with one student commenting: “I’ve attended several startup tutorials before, but this one felt the most holistic and realistic by far.”
“Idea2Impact is a testament to AUT’s commitment to not only fostering academic excellence but also enabling our students to take their ideas beyond academia. This initiative will provide them with the tools, knowledge, and support to turn their research into practical, impactful solutions that can make a real difference in the world.”
Professor Mark Orams, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research
With plans to run Idea2Impact a couple of times a year, and a waitlist already open for 2025, the programme is becoming a key resource for those looking to translate research into innovation. To register interest in the 2025 Idea2Impact cohort, complete this online form.
Vision to Venture Event Series
Another initiative has been the Vision to Venture event series, created in collaboration with the AUT Startup Club, one of the AUT Student’s Association clubs and communities. This three-part programme has provided a platform for students to hear directly from successful startup founders and be inspired by their journey.
2024 speakers included AUT alumni such as Saba Samiei (founder and CEO of AI company MACSO), Sandra Grau-Bartual (founder and CEO of AUT medical device spinout RespirAq), and current Bachelor of Design student Jacob Smith (founder of sustainable fashion spinout Woo-lace). They were joined by industry experts like Jardin Green (Programme Manager at Momentum) and Richard Liew (founder and editor of NZ Entrepreneur Magazine), who shared valuable insights into the startup ecosystem.
The series culminated in a pitching event at The King’s Trust Aotearoa’s offices at Alvarium Wealth, where participants had the opportunity to pitch their ideas to industry leaders. The vibe was inspirational and aspirational, with participants gaining firsthand experience of what it takes to bring an idea to life.
Morgan Pascoe, President of the AUT Startup Club, reflected on the partnership:
“The AUT StartUp Club inspires students to pursue entrepreneurial ventures by offering networking opportunities and insights from industry professionals. The ongoing support and collaboration the Faculty of Business, Economics, and Law as well as the AUT Ventures team have been crucial to our success, helping build the foundation for future entrepreneurs at AUT through events like our Vision to Venture series.”
For more information on the AUT Startup Club and their activities into 2025, visit their Instagram page (@autstartupclub).
Drop-in Clinics
For those seeking more informal advice, AUT Ventures has launched a Drop-in Clinic at the Employability Lab, making it easier for you to access advice on commercialisation and business ideas. Whether you are exploring a new idea or looking for specific guidance, the clinic is a welcoming space where you can chat with experts.
These sessions are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays to accommodate busy schedules. Book your time here!
NZ Entrepreneur’s StartUp NZ Programme
Collaboration has been key to these efforts, with relationships established between AUT and organisations like NZ Entrepreneur Magazine to help educate, connect, and celebrate Kiwi entrepreneurs and the organisations who make up our startup ecosystem.
Anyone who may aspire to launch a startup can undertake the first three online sessions of NZ Entrepreneur’s Startup NZ programme for free, then reach out to AUT Ventures to sponsor the remaining sessions.
Through these opportunities, AUT Ventures is supporting Te Kete’s ambition for AUT to be a hub of entrepreneurial activity — offering our innovators the chance to turn bold ideas into meaningful change.
