Te Au Pūngao Microgrants 2026
$500-$2,000 to fuel your startup experiment
Rolling applications • 3-week decisions • No repayment • No equity
What’s a Microgrant?
A microgrant is $500-$2,000 to run one focused experiment that validates a critical assumption about your startup.
We’re looking for founders building businesses that can scale beyond Marlborough, not lifestyle businesses or one-off projects, but ventures with genuine innovation and growth ambition.
The Grant
- $500-$2,000 funding
- 50% upfront, 50% at checkpoint
- Zero repayment
- Zero equity
What We Fund
- Equipment & prototypes
- Market validation
- MVP development
- Product trials & testing
Who Can Apply?
We’re looking for innovative startups with high-growth potential
This programme targets new businesses that are innovative, scalable, and have genuine ambition for growth. We want to support founders building something that can expand beyond Marlborough and make a real impact.
You’re a great fit if you have:
- Marlborough base - Located in the region
- Innovation at the core - New approach, technology, or solution
- Scalability potential - Can grow beyond local market
- Growth ambition - Building for significant impact
- Clear experiment - Specific plan for the funding
This funding is NOT for:
- Founders based outside Marlborough region
- One-off projects or events with no ongoing business
- Applications without a specific plan or goal
- Startups already raising angel or VC funding
- Lifestyle businesses without growth ambition
We prioritise startups in sectors where Marlborough has competitive advantages:
AgriTech / VitTech • Climate & Sustainability Tech • Aquaculture Innovation • Tourism Tech • Indigenous Innovation
Other sectors? Make your case. We’re open to compelling ideas.
How to Apply
3-week decision timeline • Fast-track available for urgent needs
Download the Application Form
Simple 8-question form. Takes 15-20 minutes to complete. Outline your experiment, budget, and learning goals.
Download Application FormBy applying you agree to the full terms and conditions.
Submit Your Application
Email your completed form to grants. Include any supporting materials (prototypes, feedback, research).
Review & Decision
Week 1: Initial team review
Week 2: Panel scoring (may include brief
call)
Week 3: Decision + constructive feedback
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Start?
Your next steps:
- 1.Download the application form
- 2.Complete the questions (15-20 minutes)
- 3.Submit to grants@teaupungao.com
- 4.Hear back within 3 weeks
Read the full terms and conditions