AUT Ara Tipu Start-Up Programme

Got an idea that keeps you up at night? Or a side hustle that's ready to level up? The AUT Ara Tipu Start-Up Programme – delivered with The King's Trust Aotearoa New Zealand – turns inspiration into real-world success.

Over 10 weeks, you'll test your concept, build your business skills and get access to resources and guidance to turn your vision into reality.

Why join AUT Ara Tipu?

You bring your idea. We bring the expertise, connections and up to $10,000 in seed funding. Together we build something real.

This is what you can expect:

• Sharpen your business strategy and vision
• Work with expert mentors
• Gain practical, hands-on experience
• Pitch to secure a share of $60,000 in He Kākano seed funding, with grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000
• Join a community of passionate, likeminded AUT students who get what you’re building
• Tap into The King’s Trust’s extensive network of entrepreneurs and partners; connections that can help your grow your enterprise.

What you'll leave with:

• Practical skills to develop and grow your entrepreneurial venture
• Confidence, feedback and support from mentors, business experts and peers who are committed to your success
• Opportunities for growth by taking that vital first step in your entrepreneurship journey

Business starters

Some of the start‑up ideas that have received funding

They’ve done the mahi and taken their ideas out of the notebook and into the real world. Meet some of the AUT entrepreneurs who’ve received funding through Ara Tipu – and are building businesses shaped by purpose, innovation, and people.