Canterbury-based Business Creates Hype
2014 finished on a high note for Canterbury-based business Creative Hype Ltd.
Prior to Christmas, the fledgling sports marketing and promotion company was confirmed as overall winner of the 2014 ANZ
Flying Start Business Plan competition. That accolade followed recognition of Creative Hype products as amongst the most
innovative in the country at the Innovate NZ Awards. Initially named as one of three “Flying Start” regional finalists
for Canterbury, founder/CEO Clay Caird was delighted to be named in the top 10% of over 400 entries. After a business
plan “pitch” to a judging panel, Clay went on to secure top prize ahead of four other national finalists. The winning
business plan focused on taking products to market in the USA and the prize package will be used to implement this
strategy.
Recognition by Innovation NZ came in two categories (Innovation in Marketing and Communications and Innovation in Media,
Music and Entertainment). After being externally nominated, Creative Hype netted a Highly Commended citation in the
Marketing and Communications category. CEO/founder, Clay Caird, is no stranger to the winners’ circle. Back in 2011 an
entry based on Creative Hype’s foundation product, the Footy Lid, won the NBR Otago University Audacious Challenge for
aspiring entrepreneurs. From there the business has continued to develop its range of flat-form, replica sports
headgear. It now owns intellectual property for 12 product designs in 38 countries and has supplied promotional headgear
to an impressive list of domestic and international sports organisations and sponsors.
For further information about Creative Hype Ltd, please visit www.creative-hype.com
ENDS