As proud sponsors of this kaupapa, we at Whāriki Te Tai Tokerau want to extend our heartfelt congratulations to every entrepreneur, innovator, and change-maker who stepped forward and joined/submitted their entry into The Pick this year.

With 28 submissions, the calibre of ideas, bold thinking, and sheer determination on display has been nothing short of inspiring. We acknowledge not only the six exceptional finalists—EcoFoul, MAED Innovations, Moi Mai Ra Coffinz, Rongomai Ora, She’s Got Game, and Stewart Piping—but every single participant who had the courage to share their vision.

He maimai aroha hoki ki a koutou kāore i tohua i tēnei wā. Your mahi, your whakaaro, and your potential do not go unnoticed. As Tania McInnes (Project Lead) so beautifully said, there is no such thing as failure—only learning. This is but one step on a greater journey, and we’re honoured to walk alongside you.

At Whāriki, we believe in the strength of our people, our pakihi Māori, and our wider business whānau. We see you. We celebrate you. And we look forward to supporting you as your ideas continue to grow and take shape.

E rere ana ngā mihi maioha ki te hunga i tae ki te pae, me te hunga kei te whakatipu tonu. Ka nui te aroha, ka nui te whakamiha.

We’ll see you all at Pitch Night on July 10 to celebrate this journey together. Ka rawe!