Developing NZ's next entrepreneurs

Openground fosters entrepreneurial skills, encourages personal growth, and equips students with the confidence and knowledge to pursue their entrepreneurial endeavours.

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Real-World Learning. Real Impact.

Openground is a hands-on learning experience where students work alongside real entrepreneurs and mentors to bring ideas to life. Every student gains practical skills in problem-solving, teamwork, and business building — not just theory.

About the programme

Turning Ideas Into Real Businesses.

Students don’t just talk about business — they build one. Through validation, testing, and growth, many Openground ventures have gone on to become profitable companies. The programme supports students at every step, even investing in top-performing ventures to help them grow.

Building Futures, Not Just Businesses.

Openground gives students real-world experience, confidence, and a professional network that lasts far beyond the classroom. Whether they go on to start a company, study further, or join an innovative organisation, they carry the mindset and skills to thrive in any path they choose.

The connections gained through Openground will be extremely valuable for me in the future. Connections like my mentor that we got at the start of the year. Their expertise and advice is priceless for a business owner like me with very little experience.

- Dan, M.