A revolutionary diabetes detection system and a digital DJ software platform are among the unique range of solutions produced by the 29 finalists in this year’s 2013 New Zealand International Business Awards.
A revolutionary diabetes detection system and a digital DJ software platform are among the unique range of solutions produced by the 29 finalists in this year’s 2013 New Zealand International Business Awards. Celebrating the passion, vision and new approaches that New Zealand businesses are taking to achieve international success, the Awards are run by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) and strategic partner ANZ.
Other finalists include a business offering 3D modelling technology for use in hydrogeological and geothermal exploration, a company whose handmade educational tools for children are sold in Harrods and MoMa, a burger venture taking on the Middle East, a business that manufactures precision electro magnets used in touchscreens, whiteware and medical systems, and a number of agricultural and ICT-focused companies. Also of note this year are the two winery finalists - the first time in four years a winery has made it to the finalist stage of the Awards.
A judging panel featuring some of New Zealand’s top business minds scrutinised over 160 entries across 68 companies before settling on the 29 finalists.
In addition to celebrating company achievements, the Awards recognise individuals who are leading lights in the New Zealand business community. Six business leaders are finalists in two categories that celebrate an emerging and an outstanding leader in international business.
Peter Chrisp, Chief Executive of New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, said the breadth of finalists from across various New Zealand regions and sectors demonstrates the diversity of this country’s business prowess.
“The global economy continues to be tough and these finalists have certainly faced their share of challenges on the road to internationalisation. But through their ambition, skill, flexibility, adaptability and determination, they continue to rise to the challenge and their contribution to the country’s export success is invaluable.
“That contribution isn’t only measured in revenue - companies may have spent the past year positioning themselves for future growth, growing their share of a particular market, or increasing their brand profile. These are all powerful business growth strategies.”
David Green, Managing Director Institutional at ANZ New Zealand, said: “A successful export sector is good for business and essential for creating jobs and growth in the New Zealand economy. These diverse finalists epitomise this country’s exporting strengths and are stand-outs among the inspirational companies and individuals that are succeeding in international markets.
“In positioning their businesses on the global stage, they’re competing and winning in an environment that is challenging and rapidly changing. If mastered successfully, the changes that are incurring, including the rapid growth and urbanisation in Asian markets, provide enormous opportunities for businesses to grow and contribute to New Zealand’s success.”
The finalists, together with individuals nominated in the leadership categories, have a nervous wait ahead of the Awards ceremony, which is being held on September 26 in Auckland.
General Category Finalists
ANZ Best Business Operating Internationally – Under $10m
ANZ Best Business Operating Internationally – $10m-$50m
ANZ Best Business Operating Internationally – Over $50m
Special Category Finalists
International success through the application of innovation, supported by Callaghan Innovation
Best Commercialisation of Intellectual Property in International Business, supported by James & Wells
Most Innovative Business Model in International Business, supported by AUT Business
Best Use of Design in International Business
Leadership Category Finalists
KPMG Outstanding International Business Leader
KPMG Leader: Outstanding Contribution to International Business
Media Release: New Zealand Trade and Enterprise
12/08/2013