Bridgewest Ventures NZ

Awww shucks! We will never tire of being described as a jewel in the ecosystem. Great read in the NZ Herald last week about the current state of the innovation ecosystem in Auckland. Spoiler alert: It's punching above its weight on the global stage, and rapidly growing with exciting developments on the horizon. We’re really proud to be part of that ecosystem, supporting visionary founders and breakthrough technologies. Pam Ford, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, we’re pretty darn fond of you too! Check out the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gwMGFXkk 

New Role Alert! Imagine a world where batteries last longer, perform better, and are built for a truly sustainable future. Entropeak is making that a reality and you could join them. In collaboration with Professor Peng Cao and the University of Auckland, we have launched a new venture to pioneer advanced materials that push the boundaries of energy storage, starting with lithium-ion batteries. To drive this vision forward, we’re searching for a Commercial Lead to join our founding team. This is more than just a job - it’s an opportunity to shape a deep-tech startup, craft global go-to-market strategies, and play a pivotal role in securing the future of sustainable energy. If you’re ready to take on a challenge that could change the way the world stores energy, we’d love to hear from you. Learn more & apply here: https://lnkd.in/gUwvwGcK

After nearly two decades leading Air Force missions around the world, Matt Nanda is tackling a new challenge: driving innovation in New Zealand’s deep tech ecosystem. Matt has joined BVNZ as an Entrepreneur in Residence, taking a month-long deep dive into the world of venture creation. With a background in global air operations, leadership, and complex problem-solving, he’s exploring how deep tech innovation can help tackle challenges in maritime surveillance and beyond. Matt’s experience highlights the value of diverse perspectives in startup ecosystems - connecting big problems with cutting-edge solutions. Read more about his journey and insights here: https://lnkd.in/gTZvByWZ

Why choose when you can have it all! Speed - Quality - Price Get all 3 for your clinical trial in New Zealand and Australia with BioValeo. Contact BioValeo to talk about opportunities for your clinical trial. www.biovaleo.com #BioValeo #clinicaltrial #CRO

We’re excited to welcome Alexander Rivers as BVNZ’s new Community Manager & Investment Analyst! Building a successful startup isn’t just about securing funding, it’s about having the right connections, insights, and support to turn bold ideas into thriving businesses. That’s where Alex comes in. With a background in biomedical science, commercialisation, and venture ecosystems, he’s passionate about helping founders navigate their journeys and building bridges across New Zealand’s deep tech community. Welcome to the team, Alex! We’re looking forward to the impact you’ll have in strengthening the network of founders, investors, and innovators. Get to know Alex and his role at BVNZ—read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gQZgS-6x #Innovation #DeepTech #NZ #NewZealand #NewTeamMember

Last week the Auckland team got together to walk part of the beautiful Edmond Hillary Trail at North Piha-a trail which the locals claim passes by Sir Ed's family bach (holiday home for the non-Kiwis in the room). The next day, Kate de Ridder and Darja Nelson attended the inaugural Edmond Hillary Innovation Summit in Tāmaki Makaurau, convening Hillary Laureates, Fellows, iwi and Māori organizations, local and global investors, entrepreneurs, system designers, and public and private sector leaders. The conversation was deeply focused on a systems thinking approach to solving some of the biggest problem we face today. Amazing job Rosalie Nelson and the team. The Foundation has been instrumental in bringing many notable individuals into the fold in NZ and a number of our advisors are here because of it- and we are really keen to connect with more global leaders and changemakers. Reach out if you are an expert about life sciences, climate, food and animal health and tech and want to know more about Bridgewest's impactful Innovations! Rosalie Nelson Michelle Cole Dr Reza Jarral Kirsty Reynolds Mohan Nair Michael Sims Mark Pavlyukovskyy Fredric Evenson

It’s no secret that we are big fans of the NZ Hi-Tech Awards. It’s a fantastic event showcasing the innovation and talent in New Zealand's tech sector. We’ve supported the event for many years, and this year is its 30th anniversary! Entries are closing in 3 weeks, so if you or someone in your network has built an innovative tech solution, leveraged technology in a game-changing way, or is simply a standout in the field, now is the time to step up and get the recognition you deserve! Check out the categories and enter here: https://lnkd.in/gEjaBt2V Don't miss your chance to shine! #HTANZ #TechInnovation #KiwiTech

We’re so pleased to welcome Akansha Gill, ACG as BVNZ’s new Legal & Compliance Coordinator! Startups and VCs face plenty of legal and compliance challenges—whether managing risk, ensuring proper documentation, or guiding founders in their governance roles. Akansha brings a wealth of experience to help our founders navigate these complexities with ease, so they can focus on growing and scaling their ventures. Welcome to the team Akansha! We’re excited for the positive impact you’re going to have for our portfolio companies and the wider NZ deep tech community. Get to know Akansha and how she’s supporting deep-tech innovation—read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gMkR2cTN

Plans Change. Impact Stays the Same. The Impactful Innovation Conference 2025 has a new date: October 20th, 2025. What hasn’t changed? 🌟 The brilliant speakers. 🌟 The bold ideas. 🌟 The energy that defines innovation in deep tech, biotech, and beyond. Mark your calendars for this earlier opportunity to connect and collaborate. Register your interest here: https://lnkd.in/gUAKQXi2

Can something as green as gardening have a dirty secret? As it turns out, yes it can. Horticulture has a huge plastic problem. Most plant pots are made from fossil-based plastics that can’t even be recycled due to contamination. But Compostify (Bioplastics) is changing that. Founded by Steve Wilson, Peter Wilson, and Mutahar (Moody) Glasgow, Compostify is creating a range of products from their truly home-compostable bioplastics that break down in less than a year—even in your garden soil. No microplastics, no waste, just nutrients returning to the earth. We’re beyond excited to welcome Compostify to the Bridgewest family and support their mission to reshape sustainability! Want to learn more? Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/gUpAB_Kv #NewVenture #DeepTech #GreenTech #Innovation #NZ #BioPlastics