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Blog9 Pre-Seed Investors in New Zealand in 2024

9 Pre-Seed Investors in New Zealand in 2024

Marc Seitz

Marc Seitz

@mfts0

This article explores the leading pre-seed investors in New Zealand, who are fueling the country's vibrant startup ecosystem. In 2024, New Zealand startups attracted over NZD 100 million in pre-seed funding, showcasing a burgeoning interest in early-stage investments. The piece highlights key investors driving innovation and supporting emerging entrepreneurs in this dynamic market.

Quick list of pre-seed venture capital firms in New Zealand

  • Icehouse Ventures: Fostering innovation, they significantly elevate the startup ecosystem in New Zealand.
  • Spark: Transforming New Zealand's digital landscape, Spark provides innovative telecommunications solutions nationwide.
  • Hillfarrance Venture Capital: Empower startups across New Zealand by providing essential funding and support for innovative growth.
  • Ice Angels: Catalyze innovation by supporting early-stage startups across various industries in New Zealand.
  • WNT Ventures: Fostering innovation, they drive growth in New Zealand's technology sector.
  • Flux Accelerator: Boosting innovation, Flux Accelerator has significantly advanced the startup ecosystem in New Zealand.
  • Creative HQ: Fostering innovation, Creative HQ powers the growth of startups and entrepreneurship across New Zealand.
  • Callaghan Innovation: Fostering innovation and growth, Callaghan Innovation significantly boosts the technology and research sectors in New Zealand.
  • Startup Dunedin: Fostering innovation, Startup Dunedin plays a pivotal role in nurturing the entrepreneurial ecosystem in New Zealand.

How to get yes from pre-seed investors in New Zealand?

There is no guarantee pre-seed investors in New Zealand or any other place will say yes, and the chances are low, on average 1/100 will invest. The best you can do is to capture interest as soon as possible or get no and move on.

How? Share your pitch deck as a link not as an attachment and get insights if investors are interested

  1. Get notified when investor view your deck
  2. Track how long they were on each page of your deck
  3. Capture emails of investors who viewed your deck
  4. Protect your IP using watermark, screenshot protection and other link permissions
  5. Securely send data room with multiple documents

Pitch deck sharing

How to find pre-seed investors in New Zealand?

Selecting the right pre-seed investors in New Zealand for your startup is crucial for success. Consider these factors:

  • Alignment: Ensure that the investor's goals and values align with your startup's vision. This compatibility can lead to a more harmonious partnership.

  • Experience: Look for investors with experience in your industry. This background can provide valuable insights and guidance tailored to your market.

  • Reputation: Research the investor's track record. Positive reviews and successful past investments can indicate a trustworthy and competent investor.

  • Network: Consider the investor's network and connections. A well-connected investor can open doors to new opportunities and partnerships.

  • Contribution: Evaluate the potential for value beyond capital. Some investors offer mentorship, strategic advice, or operational support, which can be pivotal for early-stage growth.

  • Terms: Scrutinize the investment terms and conditions. Ensure they are fair and reasonable, preserving your equity and control over the company.

  • Long-term Commitment: Determine the investor’s preference for future investment rounds. A committed investor who is willing to support subsequent funding can provide stability and continuity.

  • Local Understanding: Choose investors familiar with the New Zealand market's nuances. Insight into local regulations and consumer behavior can be advantageous.

  • Cultural Fit: Consider if the investor appreciates and respects cultural nuances, especially if your startup is involved in sectors sensitive to New Zealand's cultural context.

  • Decision-making Process: Understand how the investor makes decisions. A transparent and efficient process can facilitate better communication and mutual understanding.

  • Reach out: Turn your pitch deck into trackable link and send it when reaching out to investors, analyse the engagement on each page and follow up after it.

How to send your pitch deck to pre-seed VC funds in New Zealand

To effectively engage with pre-seed investors in New Zealand:

  • Research Potential Investors: Identify and compile a list of investors or firms in New Zealand that focus on pre-seed funding. Use platforms like AngelList, Crunchbase, and LinkedIn to find investors who have a history of investing in early-stage startups.

  • Understand Their Investment Criteria: Each investor may have specific industries or technologies they are interested in. Make sure to understand their investment criteria, such as sector focus, average check size, and stage preferences, to customize your pitch.

  • Create a Compelling Pitch Deck: Develop a clear and concise pitch deck that highlights your business idea, market opportunity, unique value proposition, business model, traction, and team. Ensure it is tailored to resonate with investors' interests.

  • Leverage Network Connections: Use your professional and personal network to find connections to potential investors. A warm introduction via a mutual contact can significantly increase your chances of securing a meeting.

  • Attend Networking Events: Participate in local startup events, pitch competitions, and industry meetups in New Zealand. These events are excellent opportunities to meet investors in person and build relationships.

  • Utilize Online Platforms: Engage on platforms such as LinkedIn to connect with investors. Share relevant content and participate in discussions to increase visibility and credibility within the investment community.

  • Personalize Outreach Emails: When reaching out, personalize your email by mentioning how you found them and why you believe they are a good fit for your venture. Highlight aspects of your startup that align with their investment thesis.

  • Follow Up Appropriately: If you do not receive a response, follow up politely after a week or two. Demonstrating persistence can be seen as a positive trait, showing your commitment and determination.

  • Prepare for Investor Meetings: Demonstrate thorough preparation by being ready to discuss every aspect of your business. Anticipate potential questions and practice your pitch with peers.

  • Show Traction and Validation: Highlight any traction your startup has achieved, such as customer acquisitions, partnerships, or product milestones. Proof of concept and market validation can greatly strengthen your pitch.

  • Seek Feedback: Regardless of the outcome, always ask for feedback from investors. Use their insights to refine your pitch and strategy for future approaches.

  • Send Your Pitch Deck and track results: Use pitch deck sharing software to send your deck and track time investors spend on each page and capture feedback from them.

1. Icehouse Ventures

Icehouse Ventures significantly boosts New Zealand's entrepreneurial ecosystem by funding and supporting innovative startups.

  • Sector: Software, SaaS, IT, Health Care, Financial Services, Analytics, AI, Education, Biotechnology, Agnostic
  • Stage: Pre-Seed, Seed, Series A, Angel
  • Location: New Zealand
  • Website: https://www.icehouseventures.co.nz/

2. Spark

Spark has significantly impacted New Zealand by enhancing digital connectivity and driving innovation in telecommunications and IT services across the country.

  • Sector: nan
  • Stage: Pre-Seed, Seed, Series A, Series B
  • Location: New Zealand
  • Website: nan

3. Hillfarrance Venture Capital

Hillfarrance Venture Capital significantly contributes to New Zealand's innovation ecosystem by supporting and investing in early-stage technology startups.

  • Sector: Agnostic, AI, Computing, Enterprise, Gaming, Media and Entertainment, Climate Tech, SaaS, B2B Software, Cloud Infrastructure
  • Stage: Pre-Seed, Seed, Series A, Early Stage
  • Location: New Zealand
  • Website: https://hillfarrance.com

4. Ice Angels

Ice Angels has significantly boosted New Zealand's entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing essential funding and support to emerging startups.

5. WNT Ventures

WNT Ventures fosters innovation in New Zealand by investing in and supporting early-stage technology startups.

6. Flux Accelerator

Flux Accelerator has significantly boosted the growth of early-stage tech startups in New Zealand by providing essential resources and mentorship.

  • Sector: nan
  • Stage: Accelerator, Pre-Seed, Seed
  • Location: New Zealand
  • Website: nan

7. Creative HQ

Creative HQ has significantly contributed to New Zealand's innovation ecosystem by nurturing entrepreneurs and startups through its comprehensive accelerator and incubation programs.

8. Callaghan Innovation

Callaghan Innovation fuels New Zealand's innovation by supporting research and development, driving the growth of high-tech businesses.

9. Startup Dunedin

Startup Dunedin fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, significantly contributing to New Zealand's startup ecosystem by supporting local entrepreneurs.

Did not find the right pre-seed investors in New Zealand ?

Check our open investors database with 7k+ VC funds listed.

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Conclusion: pre-seed VC firms in New Zealand actively investing in 2024

In conclusion, the thriving pre-seed investment landscape in New Zealand is fueled by an extraordinary mix of dedication, innovation, and strategic support from key investors who are pivotal in transforming the nation's entrepreneurial ecosystem. With over NZD 100 million injected into early-stage ventures in 2024, New Zealand demonstrates a robust environment for startups to flourish. Investors like Icehouse Ventures, Spark, Hillfarrance Venture Capital, and others highlighted in this article are not only providing crucial financial assistance but also offering essential mentorship and strategic guidance. This solid backing is indispensable for burgeoning entrepreneurs, setting the stage for sustained innovation and economic growth across New Zealand.

As the startup scene continues to evolve, these pre-seed investors are instrumental in fostering an ecosystem where new ideas can be nurtured and scaled efficiently. They offer a blend of funding, expertise, and networking opportunities, empowering startups to overcome early-stage hurdles and achieve significant milestones. For entrepreneurs seeking pre-seed funding, understanding the landscape, aligning with the right investors, and capitalizing on these opportunities are crucial steps toward success. The interplay of committed investors and ambitious startups heralds a promising future for New Zealand's place in the global innovation arena.

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