Entrepreneurs shine at CO.STARTERS graduation

CO.STARTERS is a ten-week business start-up and development programme that equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the insights, relationships and tools needed to turn business ideas into action.

The latest programme held in Greymouth was facilitated by Hannah Fitzgibbon, Ian Johnson and Zane Smith.

It concluded last Tuesday with Celebration Night where participants shared their inspiring business pitches to the local business community.

Phoebe Walker took home the prize for best pitch of the night on her business ‘Flowers - by Pheobe’, earning a 12-month subscription to Business Mentor New Zealand and a local business service voucher valued at $300. She also clinched the Team Choice prize, voted by her peers.

In addition, Pheobe, Yasmin Waters and Susie Gilroy were all recognised for their significant customer interactions and research during the programme.

Facilitator Hannah Fitzgibbon said, “This year's cohort of businesses are exciting. They have been determined and focussed throughout the programme which really showed in their pitches.”

“I think we can look forward to a few more vibrant small businesses on the Coast after this year's CO.STARTERS programme. I was really impressed by the work everyone put in.”

Phoebe reflected on her experience and the impact of CO.STARTERS, saying, “I feel like I have the momentum and tools to really sink my teeth in and create a business which provides a work/life balance around our young family, my skills and the space we are lucky enough to live in here in Greymouth.”

She said CO.STARTERS was great at breaking down business into digestible parts.

“I would recommend the course to people feeling like they need some support and education around starting their own business.”