For immediate release
17 April 2003
FROM BRIGHT SPARKS TO LEADING LIGHTS
Aimed at turning first-class ideas into world-class businesses, spark*: The University of Auckland Entrepreneurship
Challenge is an innovative programme designed by students. The challenge will be launched on May 8.
spark* is modelled on successful initiatives run at MIT (USA) and Cambridge University. Billions of dollars have been
generated by these competitions and spark* Chair Monique Cornish believes that "all the elements are in place for
similar successes in the Auckland region."
spark* starts with Vision to Business, a course that delivers the kinds of entrepreneurial skills needed to foot it in
the business world. Those then taking up the $10K Challenge go into win one of ten $1000 awards for their businesses
profile.
Bolder teams can enter the $40K Challenge requiring them to submit a business creation plan to be judged by successful
industry practitioners. The winning team will receive a prize package valued at $30000, the runner-up $10000, to develop
their businesses.
All participants receive extensive mentoring to help them enhance the robustness of their plans. Finalists have the
opportunity to present to leading angel investors and venture capitalists.
spark* is run by The University of Auckland Postgraduate Students Association in conjunction with The University of
Auckland Business School and The ICEHOUSE. Foundation Partners include Microsoft New Zealand and The Edwards Charitable
Trust.
Ends
For more information: Visit the spark* website, www.spark.auckland.ac.nz, or contact:
Monique Cornish Chair spark*: The University of Auckland Entrepreneurship Challenge spark-chair@auckland.ac.nz