Samsung and The Icehouse team up to launch Samsung Springboa

Samsung and The Icehouse team up to launch Samsung Springboard

A competition for Kiwi tech companies to take a leap onto a global stage with mentoring opportunities and $30,000 prize money.

AUCKLAND, New Zealand - Tuesday, 25th August – At an event in Auckland yesterday, The Icehouse and Samsung Electronics announced the launch of Samsung Springboard – a competition designed to cast the spotlight on savvy and innovative Kiwi tech leaders. Targeting local technology start-ups and SMEs with the potential for global success, the competition will offer finalists a range of mentoring and networking opportunities and resources, with the grand prize including a cash investment of $30,000NZD. Entries opened 24th August, with the selected finalists set to compete in a live pitching event on November 5th,

As part of the Samsung Springboard program, the five finalists will have access to leading business mentors and workshops to perfect their pitch. The winners will be selected by a panel comprising of some of the most influential Kiwi business leaders, including Managing Director of Samsung New Zealand Kenny Yeon, CEO of The Icehouse Andy Hamilton, PowerbyProxi CEO Greg Cross, Samsung Enterprise Director Verdon Kelliher and Dr. Michelle Dickinson (aka Nano Girl). As well as the top cash prize and potential to connect into the global Samsung network, special prizes include $10,000 developer funding, a tenancy at Kiwi Landing Pad in San Francisco including flights, Samsung products and workshops from The Icehouse.

Kenny Yeon, Managing Director of Samsung New Zealand, says the idea of the Samsung Springboard came from Samsung’s aspiration to offer invaluable opportunities, resources and global scope to New Zealand’s emerging tech entrepreneurs which will enable their future success.

“With our international profile and commitment to changing the world through innovation, Samsung initiated Springboard as an excellent way of elevating our local business talent, and encouraging development in the local technology sector,” says Mrs Yeon.

The Icehouse jumped straight on board when Samsung pitched the idea to them. Andy Hamilton, CEO of The Icehouse says the purpose of the Samsung Springboard is to elevate tomorrow’sleaders in technology which is a great fit with The Icehouse.

“The Icehouse is all about growing Kiwi businesses and we’re committed to creating a high performing New Zealand economy where ideas and businesses thrive. We saw the Samsung Springboard as a great programme that aligned with our core values and also a chance to celebrate and raise awareness for Kiwi tech talent and innovation,” says Andy Hamilton, CEO of The Icehouse.

One of the Kiwi tech talents who will be entering the Samsung Springboard is I Measure U, a measurement and analysis system for unparalleled information around body movement. Mark Finch, Founder of I Measure U, explains why they’re keen to get involved.

“We’re very excited about participating in the Samsung Springboard. We’re always looking at new ways of getting noticed internationally and this competition provides a great way to do just that, especially with one of the world’s greatest tech giants! The pool of prizes provide a great incentive that will help us make the transition into the US, and most importantly open doors into potential dealings with Samsung Global.”

ENDS

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