Idea2ImpactARA HUA

Do you have a research project or business idea that you want to turn into something real? The Ara Hua Idea2Impact programme guides you through the process of transforming inspiration into impact.

Over eight weeks, you’ll learn about key concepts that will validate and develop your idea to qualify for up to $60,000 in commercialisation funding.

The Winter’26 Cohort kicks off on 9 June and spaces are strictly limited - APPLY TODAY!

Why Choose Ara Hua | Idea2Impact?

This programme is proven to empower AUT students and researchers to take their next steps towards becoming Founders and contributing to the innovation ecosystem.

Previous cohorts include:

• Julian Zhang: TableTale
• Leah La Hood: LawMind
• Rifqah Azzahra Naudlidia: GlucoGold Yoghurt
• Federico Sarzi Braga: LandLend
• Stephanie Wagner: SoulSip
• Boyuan Qian: Qior
• Kanat Sultanbekov: WasteScan
• Sreedath Ikarath: RAIN (Resilient AI for Infrastructure Networks)
• Gustav Kahn: gus-energy
• Ademar Tutor: adematic
• Linda Pham: Assisted Feeding Device

What can you expect?

The eight-week programme (approximately 30 hours) is split into four modules, covering topics that include:

• Commercialisation models
• AUT Intellectual Property policy
• AUT spinout success stories
• Market and competitor analysis
• Market validation
• Value proposition
• Revenue and business models
• Building a brand
• Company structures and investment landscape
• Pitch practice

You’ll join a community of passionate, like-minded AUT researchers who understand what you’re going through.

Applications are open for the Winter ’26 Cohort

The programme runs from 9 June to 28 July 2026.

Apply now