The search is on for the next kapa (group) of Māori tech entrepreneurs, innovators and start-ups to take part in a unique kaupapa-led business accelerator programme.

Kōkiri is an intensive three-month programme for start-ups that have high-growth potential. Aimed at accelerating market entry, the successful teams will be confident to showcase their ventures to potential backers and be ready to negotiate investment opportunities.

Up to 10 successful teams will receive mentoring, education, founder capability development, and networking opportunities. In addition, the support package will provide participants with a start-up grant of $10,000, additional travel assistance, and accommodation during the live-in residential periods.

Kōkiri is designed to provide a wraparound support network to enable teams to focus solely on their business development during the accelerator.

Te Wānanga o Aotearoa has partnered with Callaghan Innovation - the government’s business innovation agency - and industry leaders in the Māori economy to deliver the programme.

Kōkiri is the only indigenous member of the Global Accelerator Network (GAN) in Aotearoa. GAN is an invite-only community of the world’s most respected organisations that provide start-ups with the best resources to create and grow their businesses.

Aisha Ross, Programme Lead for Kōkiri at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, says the 2020 accelerator provides a unique opportunity for technology-focused Māori businesses that are seeking growth and development.

“Our kaupapa combines acceleration methods to accelerate Māori led start-ups to develop their skills, capability, and readiness for market entry, while supporting founder wellbeing.

Applications open on December 1 and successful applicants will be announced in February before the programme kicks off in April.

There will be information sessions and application workshops across the motu (country) in December 2019 and January 2020. For more information, visit kokiri.nz