New Zealand’s innovation ecosystem needed to support our future
20 November 2025
At a time when innovation and entrepreneurship are vital to Aotearoa New Zealand’s future, Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, is inviting alumni and friends to support the next generation of innovators through the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship’s (CIE) new Innovators and Entrepreneurs’ Pledge.
For more than 20 years, CIE has helped thousands of students and staff develop entrepreneurial mindsets and bring ideas to life through delivering programmes that support start-up creation or innovation-focused careers. The pledge offers a way for alumni and friends to give back, not right now, but when the time is right in their personal or professional journey.
By committing to a non-binding pledge, supporters can choose to contribute to the future, through a gift of cash, public stock or private equity, while joining a values-driven community of entrepreneurial thinkers. Pledge participants receive regular updates, invitations to events and an annual gathering with other founders and alumni.
The University’s Associate Director of Development, Stuart Angel, has seen first-hand the power of giving, “CIE has gone from strength to strength in creating innovative and entrepreneurial talent that powers New Zealand’s social, economic and environmental prosperity."
Opportunities such as the Vanguard Entrepreneurial Leaders Expedition and the existence of CIE’s innovation hub, Unleash Space, would not have been possible without community support. As New Zealand looks forward and strives to compete globally, further support is critical to create the infrastructure that will enable us to create exceptional talent.
With many of New Zealand’s leading innovators having their entrepreneurial spark ignited through CIE involvement, alumni have already proven the impact of entrepreneurship on Aotearoa and beyond. This pledge is a way to help the next generation do the same.
CIE warmly thanks those who have already pledged their support:
- Privahini Bradoo
- Graeme Fielder
- Mark Finch
- Will Lockie
- Fady Mishriki
- Kate Ricketts
- Glenn Riddell
- Dipra Ray
- Swati Sharma
- Lucy Xie
Contact
Questions?
Contact the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship for more information.
E: cie@auckland.ac.nz