Challenge over for another year

The $Unlimited Investment Challenge is an initiative led by Unlimited magazine and was originally set up for entrepreneurs who wanted to grow their business globally via the UK. This year the programme will be open to New Zealand companies seeking investment to grow in all export markets.  

The programme is strongly supported with expertise from early-stage investors, professional service providers, export market experts, sponsoring partners and leading entrepreneurs. 

A potent catalyst for investment into New Zealand companies, the programme allowed successful companies to become investment ready for all export markets. Participants had the opportunity to research, analyse, and structure their business models and rehearse their investment pitches before making real pitches to real investors with real money.

A qualified group of participants were invited to take part in this invaluable programme of support and direction to become investment ready. With committed investment advisers and fund providers engaged in the initiative, the likelihood of securing funding is much higher than going it alone.

1. The challenge was open to startup, high-growth, and enterprise businesses
2. Investment amounts could range from $100K to $5 million, sourced from a mix of investors
3. Funds would come from early-stage investors and/or angel investors
4. Challenge partners are: James & Wells; and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, Escalator Service

How does it work?

Unlimited magaine & the Independent newsletter, together with a world-class team of investors, entrepreneurs, business experts and sponsors, will help New Zealand companies get investment ready, and take them into the overseas market. From startups through to established businesses, our Investment Ready Seminars helped with advice and guidance from experts on how to successfully develop a structured approach to investors. Finalists had an opportunity to present to NZ investors who are actively investing in businesses like yours and are on the hunt for opportunities.

The schedule

Stage 1 Call for registration of interest (Completed)

Stage 2 Investment Ready Workshops (Completed)

Stage 3 Drop Sheet (Business Summary) (Completed) 

Stage 4 Finalists Workshop (20 October Auckland)
An expert panel of entrepreneurs, business professionals and sponsors will assess the needs of successful participants and deliver a workshop designed to help finalists be investment ready.

Stage 5 Dummy Pitch (28 October Auckland)
Participants will give dummy pitches to a panel of experts. Comprehensive feedback will be given to help refine their offers to investors.

Stage 6 Real Pitch to Investors (3 November Auckland)
Practice is over. Participants will give real pitches to real investors with real money – Dragon's Den-style. The day will conclude with networking drinks

February 2010
The results of the $Unlimited Investment Challenge will be published in the Independent newspaper and Unlimited magazine.