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, entrants will build confidence, test and validate their business ideas 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.
ENTRIES FOR 2026 HAVE NOW CLOSED.
The 2026 cohort started their 10-week journey in early July. We look forward to seeing our finalists share their ideas in September at Pitch Night.
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, Sponsors & Funders
The Pick ‘26 is a Northland NZ initiative and is delivered in partnership with Ministry of Social Development, Te Waka Pupuri Pūtea - Asset Holding Company for Te Runanga o Te Rarawa and Whāriki Te Taitokerau, and support from Foundation North, Ministry of Business, Innovation & Enterprise, Whangarei District Council and Te Puni Kōkiri, Business Mentors NZ, Creative Northland, One NZ, Te Hiku Iwi Development Trust, NorthChamber and Westpac NZ.
Partners
Te Waka Pupuri Pūtea - Asset Holding Company for Te Runanga o Te Rarawa
Ministry of Social Development
Whāriki Te Tai Tokerau
Key Funders
Foundation North
Te Puni Kōkiri
Whangārei District Council
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.
Business Mentors NZ
Creative Northland
NorthChamber
One NZ
Te Hiku Iwi Development Trust
