New Zealand's startup scene is getting more attention, and for good reason. Firms like Callaghan Innovation have backed over 3,800 companies, while others such as Icehouse Ventures have made hundreds of investments.
With so much activity, finding the right investor for your startup can be a challenge. We've looked at the most active and founder-friendly firms to help you get started.
Below is our list of the best 3 VC firms in New Zealand.
Failory's Top 3 Picks
1. NZVC
The New Zealand Private Capital association works to develop a world-class private equity and venture capital environment for the country's investors and entrepreneurs. Their activities cover the full spectrum of private capital, from angel and seed-stage funding to development capital and private equity.
| Headquarters | Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand |
| Year Founded | 1986 |
| Founders | — |
| Investment Stage | Early Stage, Seed |
| Nº of Investments | 56 (1 as Lead Investor) |
| Nº of Exits | 1 |
| Contact | info@nzvca.co.nz / 021 241 1191 |
As New Zealand's most active early-stage investment firm, Icehouse Ventures backs Kiwi founders with the capital and connections to build global companies. Their portfolio of over 300 startups includes Halter, Crimson Education, and Sharesies.
| Headquarters | Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand |
| Year Founded | 2003 |
| Founders | — |
| Investment Stage | Seed |
| Nº of Investments | 245 (38 as Lead Investor) |
| Nº of Exits | 22 (2 IPO'd) |
Callaghan Innovation champions New Zealand's innovators and entrepreneurs, helping them accelerate commercialization and grow their businesses faster. This government agency provides ambitious companies of all sizes with R&D services, technical solutions, skills development, and grant co-funding.
| Headquarters | Lower Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand |
| Year Founded | 2013 |
| Founders | — |
| Investment Stage | — |
| Nº of Investments | 3831 (3804 as Lead Investor) |
| Nº of Exits | 95 (26 IPO'd) |
| Contact | info@callaghaninnovation.govt.nz / +64 4 931 3578 |
