New Zealand’s fellowship for ambitious young founders
A first-of-its-kind programme offering world-class education and support for entrepreneurial high school students. If you are curious, ambitious, and have the conviction to build something that matters, we want to hear from you.
Applications close 21 June 2026
A new pathway for the next generation of founders
This Fellowship has been designed for exceptional young New Zealanders ready to build what's next, before university, before your first job, before you even have an idea.
As one of five fellows, you will receive a fully funded scholarship, which includes a world-class education pathway through Crimson Global Academy, and a year-long programme with Icehouse Ventures that includes mentorship, engagement with investors, attendance at events, support from other founders, and $10,000 funding to put towards launching and growing a business.
You will have the chance to learn from some of New Zealand's most experienced founders, including Brooke Roberts of Sharesies, Craig Piggott of Halter, Toby Hilliam of Appetise, Stefan and James Powell of Dawn Aerospace, and Jamie Beaton of Crimson Education.
$200,000 to back high school students
Five Year 12 students. $10,000 funding to launch and grow a business. A $30,000 world-class education at Crimson Global Academy. And one year learning from New Zealand’s most successful founders.
An opportunity to change your trajectory
Crimson Global Academy's world-class learning and development expertise, combined with Icehouse Ventures' networks and resources for startups has the potential to be life-changing.
World-class education
A fully-funded Year 13 place at Crimson Global Academy, valued at $30,000 per student.
Funding and resources
Receive $10,000 in funding to support the launch and growth of your company or ideas.
An expert network
Connect with founders, investors, and operators from New Zealand’s leading companies.
Exclusive events
Attend Icehouse Ventures flagship events, workshops, and founder sessions.
We're not looking for the perfect pitch. We're looking for you.
The Fellowship is open to Year 12 students across New Zealand, with five places open for the country's most exceptional young thinkers.
Fellows are assessed the same way we assess the founders we back: we're looking for those who think bigger, question harder, and have the conviction to build something the world needs before the world knows it yet.
Not polished pitches or formed business plans. Just the drive, curiosity, and determination to find the problem you are meant to solve.
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Apply now
To apply, complete a short profile outlining your passions, achievements, and the actions you’ve taken to create impact, alongside your future goals and vision.
You will also submit a short video that brings your story to life, sharing your inspiration, ideas, and what you’re building. This process helps us understand your journey, potential, and how the fellowship can support your next stage of growth.
Applications close at 5pm on 21 June 2026.
"Icehouse Ventures has been part of the Sharesies journey from the beginning, since we were just a team of 6. They have backed us with capital, networks, and shown up when it counted. That consistency over a decade has meant a lot as we’ve grown."
FAQs
Is 16 years old too young to start an entrepreneurial journey?
Does the applicant need to be based in Auckland?
What does the application and selection process involve?
Still have questions?
Get in touch with our team directly below.
