Creative HQ Accelerator

Creative HQ Accelerator, based in Wellington, New Zealand, stands as Aotearoa's leading startup hub, dedicated to fostering high-growth businesses and driving innovation across various sectors. Established in 2003 by WellingtonNZ, the city's economic development agency, its initial mandate was to support the emergence of new businesses, particularly those focused on technology. Over two decades, Creative HQ has evolved from a local service provider into an internationally recognised centre for innovation, empowering founders, intrapreneurs, and public sector leaders to transform bold ideas into tangible impact. They achieve this through immersive learning programmes, comprehensive coaching, networking opportunities, workshops, and pitch sessions, alongside providing collaborative workspaces.

A key differentiator for Creative HQ is its unique position as the only startup hub in Aotearoa working across startup, government, corporate, and international ecosystems, enabling unparalleled connectivity and collaborative problem-solving. This capability-building approach ensures that participants not only receive support but also develop their own innovation competencies. The organisation has a strong track record, having supported over 35,000 individuals, including 1,460 entrepreneurs and more than 502 companies, over its 22-year history. Their programmes, which have run nationally and internationally, have been recognised globally.

Creative HQ's impact is significant, with alumni companies collectively valued at over $1.5 billion and having attracted more than $350 million in investment. A testament to their effective methodology, 40% of the startups they support remain active five years post-programme, a figure notably higher than the global average of 10%. In 2024, Creative HQ received the Hi-Tech Award for Best Contribution to the Tech Sector and the Supreme Wellington Gold Award, acknowledging its enduring commitment to building a world-class innovation ecosystem. The leadership team includes Catherine Jones as Chief Executive, Brett Holland as Chief Innovation Officer, and Dr Colin Kennedy as Chief Growth Officer, who collectively steer the organisation towards its mission of growing successful export companies and creating high-value jobs for New Zealanders.