The Pick

The Pick

Taitokerau Northland's Business Foundations Programme - From Ideas to Action

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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.

Read the list of previous winners

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Partners, Sponsors & Funders

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.