The PowerUp Accelerator is a 10-week intensive business acceleration programme designed to fast-track the growth of high-potential, early-stage startups in Taranaki. With tailored mentorship, and a network of experts who can accelerate your journey, this programme provides the perfect launchpad for success.
Who is the PowerUp Accelerator for?
The Accelerator is for businesses with a clear MVP and who have big plans for scaling.
- Startups with an MVP (Minimum Viable Product)
- Teams with a clear vision and scalable ambitions
- Startups that have tested the market and validated their business idea
- Founders who have a working prototype and are ready to refine and scale
- Startups with potential customers waiting for the full launch or looking for your product
- Founders who are ready to take their business to the next level
What do participants receive?
- Mentors: One-on-one tailored support to unlock their potential
- Tailored expert sessions to help build their capability and scale their MVP into a thriving business
- Space: Get access to co-working desks in New Plymouth CBD for the duration of the programme
- Pitch like a pro: Fine-tuning their deck and delivery
- A supportive network: Regular group check-ins, and networking opportunities
- Accelerator Showcase: Pitch their business to gain valuable feedback and exposure
Key Timings
30 November 2025: Applications close
12 December 2025: Successful applicants notified
2 February - 27 February 2026: Onboarding and mentor matching
9 March – 15 May 2026: Accelerator Programme
13 May: PowerUp Showcase Evening
FAQs
- Is there any cost to join the Accelerator programme?
- Can I apply if I already have some funding or a developed product?
- I only have an idea – Can I apply?
- How does the selection process work?
- How can I make my application stand out?
- How many hours a week do I have to commit to this programme?
- What kind of mentorship can I expect?
- Will I receive funding from the Accelerator?
Is there any cost to join the Accelerator programme?
There is no cost to take part in the Accelerator.
Can I apply if I already have some funding or a developed product?
Yes, we accept startups at various stages, from pre-revenue to those with some traction and funding.
I only have an idea – Can I apply?
The PowerUp Accelerator is designed for early-stage businesses that already have some demonstrated traction. Check out some of our other PowerUp support for idea-stage businesses
How does the selection process work?
Applications will be reviewed by a Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki panel, who will look for innovation, scalability, and the potential for high impact.
If we have questions or need more information from you, we will organise a call.
How can I make my application stand out?
Clearly outline the problem you’re solving, show your unique value proposition and potential paths to market, demonstrate strong commitment and an understanding of your business model.
How many hours a week do I have to commit to this programme?
The PowerUp Accelerator requires between four and eight hours per week, which includes mentoring, bi-weekly expert sessions, pitch deck work and practice, and group check-ins.
This is a guideline only. The more you put into the 10 weeks, the more you will get out of it. However it's important that you are able to commit to the full 10 weeks and complete the programme (excluding any unforeseen emergencies).
What kind of mentorship can I expect?
If you are selected, you will be carefully matched with a mentor from our pool as part of the onboarding process within the first two weeks of the programme.
To ensure you are matched with the most appropriate mentor, we will discuss your needs and the expertise you are looking for to take your startup to the next level.
Your mentor will work with you for 20 hours over the 10 weeks to support your objectives and get you ready for the showcase. The frequency and method (face-to-face, hybrid) is to be agreed between you and the mentor during the onboarding process.
Will I receive funding from the Accelerator?
There is no seed funding. You will showcase your startup in front of a live audience at the end of the programme for exposure, feedback and networking opportunities.
FAQs
There is no cost to take part in the Accelerator.
Yes, we accept startups at various stages, from pre-revenue to those with some traction and funding.
The PowerUp Accelerator is designed for early-stage businesses that already have some demonstrated traction. Check out some of our other PowerUp support for idea-stage businesses
Applications will be reviewed by a Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki panel, who will look for innovation, scalability, and the potential for high impact.
If we have questions or need more information from you, we will organise a call.
Clearly outline the problem you’re solving, show your unique value proposition and potential paths to market, demonstrate strong commitment and an understanding of your business model.
The PowerUp Accelerator requires between four and eight hours per week, which includes mentoring, bi-weekly expert sessions, pitch deck work and practice, and group check-ins.
This is a guideline only. The more you put into the 10 weeks, the more you will get out of it. However it's important that you are able to commit to the full 10 weeks and complete the programme (excluding any unforeseen emergencies).
If you are selected, you will be carefully matched with a mentor from our pool as part of the onboarding process within the first two weeks of the programme.
To ensure you are matched with the most appropriate mentor, we will discuss your needs and the expertise you are looking for to take your startup to the next level.
Your mentor will work with you for 20 hours over the 10 weeks to support your objectives and get you ready for the showcase. The frequency and method (face-to-face, hybrid) is to be agreed between you and the mentor during the onboarding process.
There is no seed funding. You will showcase your startup in front of a live audience at the end of the programme for exposure, feedback and networking opportunities.
Congratulations to the six bold Taranaki startups who completed the 2025 PowerUp Accelerator Programme:
BOTALLOW, Elshaw, ExplainIT, Her Strength, Rockpool Collective, and Zoa.
Watch the full live stream of the 2025 PowerUp Accelerator Showcase.
