Program to help innovative Kiwi tech startups go global

Kenny Yeon, MD, Samsung NZ

The Icehouse and Samsung Electronics have launched a competition targeting local technology startup and SMEs with the potential for global success.

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Samsung Springboard will offer finalists a range of mentoring and networking opportunities and resources, with the grand prize including a cash investment of NZ$30,000. The competition is open till 20 September 2015.

The five finalists will have access to leading business mentors and workshops toperfect their pitch.

Chris Riddell, co-founder of Parrot Analytics, demonstrates how to present a winning pitch.

They will be selected by a panel composed of Managing Director of Samsung New Zealand Kenny Yeon, CEO of The Icehouse Andy Hamilton, PowerbyProxi CEO Greg Cross, Samsung Enterprise Director Verdon Kelliher and Dr. Michelle Dickinson (aka Nano Girl).

The Samsung Springboard Judges

Verdon Kelliher, enterprise director, Samsung

As well as the top cash prize and potential to connect into the global Samsung network, special prizes include $10,000 developer funding, access to the Kiwi Landing Pad in San Francisco including flights, Samsung products and workshops from The Icehouse.

“With our international profile and commitment to changing the world through innovation, Samsung initiated Springboard as an excellent way of elevating our local business talent, and encouraging development in the local technology sector,” says Yeon at the launch held at GridAKL.

Kenny Yeon, MD, Samsung NZ

Springboard is an excellent way of elevating our local business talent, and encouraging development in the local technology sector. Kenny Yeon,Samsung NZ

The Icehouse jumped straight on board when Samsung pitched the idea to them.

“We saw the Samsung Springboard as a great programme that aligned with our core values and also a chance to celebrate and raise awareness for Kiwi tech talent and innovation,” saysAndy Hamilton, CEO of The Icehouse.

Mark Finch, founder ofI Measure U, is one of the tech entrepreneurs who are keen to get involved in the program.

I Measure U is a measurement and analysis system for unparalleled information around body movement.

“We’re always looking at new ways of getting noticed internationally and this competition provides a great way to do just that, especially with one of the world’s greatest tech giants,” says Finch.

“The pool of prizes provide a great incentive that will help us make the transition into the US, and most importantly open doors into potential dealings with Samsung Global.”

Andy Hamilton, CEO, The Icehouse

Related: ‘Redesign your business on a blank sheet of paper’

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