The hunt is on for Franklin-based businesses and individuals keen to pitch their groundbreaking ideas for a chance to win a prize pack valued at over $10,000.
Innovation Franklin has created its own Shark Tank competition to give an opportunity to bring business ideas to life.
Innovation Franklin board member Tracey Kay said the initiative is all about championing local talent, supporting fresh ideas, and fostering innovation within the community.
“Whether at the early stages or ready to scale, this platform allows individuals and businesses to showcase their vision, gain valuable feedback from experienced business leaders, and compete for an incredible prize pack to transform ideas into reality.
“But we want it to be about more than just the prize—it’s about the experience. Our Shark Tank will connect participants with seasoned experts, offering insights and guidance that could help shape a winning idea into a thriving business.”
Tracey said the idea stemmed from a conversation between a board member and someone from the community who suggested something like this would be great for Franklin.
“We see it as a fantastic opportunity to showcase and support local business talent in Franklin. As an organisation passionate about innovation, it felt like a perfect fit! We saw it as a chance to not only inspire creativity but also to connect aspiring entrepreneurs with the resources and support they need to succeed.”
Applications close on March 7, with those shortlisted to make pitches notified at the end of
March.
In partnership with Counties Energy, Innovation Franklin is also inviting Year 9 and 10 students in the Franklin area to apply for a $500 cash grant to turn their science project ideas into reality.
For more information about Shark Tank or the Counties Energy Innovation Fund, check out
www.innovationfranklin.org.nz.
