Business Foundations Programme
The Pick Business Foundations is Te Taitokerau Northland’s very own free, startup capability programme supporting aspiring founders to turn big ideas into real, viable businesses.
Over 10 practical weeks, you’ll build confidence, test and validate your idea, and develop a clear business plan - supported by hands-on workshops, expert guidance, and real-world tools.
The journey culminates in Pitch Night, where selected finalists present to a panel of local business leaders, with the opportunity to be named The Winner of The Pick '26.
The Pick '26 - Keen to learn more?
The Pick is back soon for 2026. We're finalising all the arrangements and will have information out shortly on how to enter for this year.
In the mean-time, drop us your email in the form below and we'll make sure we let you know when registrations open.
What does the programme cover?
Over the 10-week programme, you’ll refine your idea, understand your market, and develop a winning strategy through customer insights, competitive analysis, and business modelling. Learn how to craft a compelling value proposition, master your finances, and build the right team to bring your vision to life. With workshops on pitching, networking, and securing investment, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to turn your idea into a thriving business.
This year's programme aligns with completing a Lean Canvas for your business.
Don’t just dream it—build it with The Pick 2026.
How does it all work?
The Pick Business Foundations - From Ideas to Action is a proven, free 10-week programme (extended to 12 weeks for competition finalists) designed to support aspiring founders to turn big ideas into real, viable businesses.
Through practical, hands-on workshops, expert guidance, and real-world tools, participants build confidence, test and validate their ideas, and develop a clear business plan and pathway for growth.
It’s designed with the early-stage entrepreneur in mind. It has one simple goal - to empower locals to start and build sustainable, scalable businesses that contribute to Te Taitokerau Northland and beyond.
This is a self-led, capability-focused programme that supports participants to move from idea to action, while building the skills, mindset, and connections needed for long-term success.
Who can apply?
- Anyone based in Te Taitokerau Northland with a new business idea
- Existing businesses with a new product or service idea not yet developed
- We welcome MSD clients, offering extra support to build confidence, leadership, practical skills, and real-world pathways into business and employment.
How to enter – it’s easy!
- Complete the online entry form when entries open on 26 May
- Your idea will be reviewed by our Steering Group
- We’ll let you know if you’ve secured a place by 15 July
Make sure you read the Terms and Conditions before applying.
Your commitment
If selected, you’ll take part in a 10-week programme (starting 22 July), working alongside business experts to shape your idea into a viable model. Exciting!
Plan to allow 4 to 5 hours per week (sessions + working on your idea).
We also ask that all participants contribute to a respectful, safe, and inclusive environment. The programme is delivered within a Te Ao Māori-informed context, grounded in values like manaakitanga and whanaungatanga.
The Pick – Pitch Night: Competition Aspect
The programme culminates in The Pick - Pitch Night, where selected finalists present their ideas to a panel of judges.
It’s a little nerve-wracking - and a lot of fun.
Finalists receive additional support and training, and one will be named The Pick ’26 Winner.
Timeframes and Insights
- Entries close: 5pm, 3 July 2026
- Participants confirmed: by 15 July
- Programme runs: 22 July - 23 September
- Pitch Night: 22 October
Sessions run every Wednesday (10am - 12.30pm), in person around Northland and/or online.
You’ll also have access to:
- Friday ‘Ask Me Anything’ expert sessions
- Recorded workshops to catch up anytime
- Online private social media group to connect with the wider cohort
Behind the Scenes of The Pick '25
HEAR FROM OUR PARTICIPANTS & SEE THE HIGHLIGHTS FROM PITCH NIGHT
Hear From Some of Our Participants
In this video series, participants from The Pick '25 share their journeys — what they learned, the challenges they overcame, and how the programme has shaped their businesses.
Pitch Night - Highlights Video
View the highlights video from our 2025 Pitch Night, held in the beautiful Te Iwitahi building at the Whangārei District Council.
Pitch Night Photos
A brief look in photos capturing the energy and ideas of Pitch Night as our six finalists presented their business ideas to a panel of local business experts.
Previous Winners
People from all walks of life have joined us for the programme since it started running in 2017.
Partners and Sponsors
The Pick ‘26 is a Northland NZ (formerly Northland Inc) initiative and is delivered in partnership with Ministry of Social Development, NorthChamber, Whāriki Te Taitokerau, and Te Waka Pupuri Pūtea, with support from One NZ, Westpac NZ and Te Hiku Development Trust.
Partners
Te Waka Pupuri Pūtea - Asset Holding Company for Te Runanga o Te Rarawa
Ministry of Social Development
NorthChamber
Whāriki Te Tai Tokerau
Sponsors & Supporters
Thanks for helping us support great business ideas
Thank you to our generous sponsors and supporters who we are delighted to work alongside to help Taitokerau Northland businesses thrive.
One NZ
Te Hiku Iwi Development Trust
