Deadline: 23-Feb-2026
The Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono is offering eight Southeast Asian tech entrepreneurs the chance to connect with Kiwi innovators and attend New Zealand’s premier NZ High-Tech Awards Gala.
Southeast Asian tech entrepreneurs and business leaders have the chance to immerse themselves in New Zealand’s vibrant tech ecosystem, build meaningful international connections, and gain insights that can help grow their businesses globally. The focus areas of the programme include gaining a better understanding of New Zealand’s emerging tech sector, interacting with fellow entrepreneurs in the tech industry, exploring international business connections, attending the NZ High-Tech Awards Gala dinner, learning about the New Zealand business environment specifically related to tech, meeting and networking with entrepreneurs and business leaders from New Zealand, connecting with government officials and Foundation stakeholders, and understanding the culture of New Zealand.
The Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono is offering up to eight young Southeast Asian tech entrepreneurs and business leaders the chance to take part in this week-long programme from 17-23 May 2025. Applicants must be under 40, demonstrate leadership in their field, have a working proficiency in English, and be entrepreneurs or senior-level business leaders involved in tech in one of the ASEAN countries. Both outstanding start-up and emerging entrepreneurs will also be considered, with no prior knowledge of New Zealand required.
During the trip, participants will meet and network with New Zealand tech entrepreneurs and business leaders, attend the NZ High-Tech Awards, and visit local tech businesses to gain insights into the industry. They will also have the chance to connect with past YBLI programme members, members of the Foundation’s Leadership Network, and other key stakeholders. The programme emphasizes both professional growth and cultural exchange, allowing participants to deepen their understanding of New Zealand’s business environment while fostering relationships that support international collaboration.
This programme is designed to grow participants’ awareness of doing business in New Zealand, enhance connections with industry leaders, and build confidence in succeeding internationally. Participants are expected to be confident public speakers, willing to engage in dialogue, and enthusiastic about contributing to the relationship between New Zealand and ASEAN.
For more information, visit Asia New Zealand Foundation.
