Startup Investment New Zealand

The magazine for angel investors

Welcome to the April 2019 edition of Startup Investment magazine

In this edition, we take a look back and reflect on how far the startup community in New Zealand has come over the last 10 years, and how important angel investment is for getting these businesses started. Those who have been on the journey know how exciting it’s been and how much potential there is for the future - it’s a great time to be involved.

By taking a look at the data, we can see just how vibrant the startup community has become.

The latest information from the Young Company Finance Index shows investment has steadily increased from over $30 million in 2008 to over $100 million in 2018. The breadth of sectors companies operate in has expanded significantly, from eight to 12, with the addition of education and household/ personal products to name a couple.

The regions where capital is invested is also changing. Nelson, New Plymouth and Cambridge, amongst others, are now home to dynamic startup communities.

When it comes to funding stages, there is more startup investment than 10 years ago (up from $19 million to $55 million) and at the early expansion stage (up from $5 million to $21 million).

This data is consistent with the TIN100 reports showing New Zealand tech sector revenue growing from $6.3 billion in 2008 to $11.1 billion in 2018, with many initially angel-backed companies contributing to this growth.

These findings reveal an ecosystem in great health and give us plenty of reasons to be excited for the next decade.

We hope you enjoy this edition of Startup Investment. I look forward to sharing more insights with you in the next edition.

Anand Reddy

PwC Partner

Anand Reddy

Definitions

What is a start up?

A company in development infancy which has a strong growth outlook both financially and in terms of innovation. Often a startup will be from a niche sector or deliver a bespoke product or service within an uncertain market.

What is an Angel investor?

In return for ownership equity, these individuals or companies typically invest between $15k and $100k of seed funding in high growth startups, plus provide experience and networking opportunities.

What is venture capital/growth capital?

Similar to risk capital, this financial investment by individuals or companies in startups is made with an expectation of higher returns – in return for greater risk. Seed funds are often managed by venture capitalists.

Learn more about Angel Investment

See how early stage investors are supporting the New Zealand economy on the Angel Association website. The Angel Association has partnered with PwC New Zealand to produce Startup Investment Magazine and the Young Company Finance Index.

Find out more

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