Established in 2003, Spark was inspired by similar competitions at The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT, MIT $100K) and The University of Cambridge (Cambridge University Entrepreneurs). Based on their success, Spark was established to foster an entrepreneurial culture and commercialise the host of innovative ideas developed within The University of Auckland for the benefit and prosperity of New Zealand. 

Spark is a student-led initiative, in partnership with The University of Auckland Business School and business incubator The ICEHOUSE (International Centre for Entrepreneurship). Spark is supported by its Gold Partners: ANZ, Auckland Uniservices Limited, Ministry of Science & Innovation, in addition to our Silver Partners: Auckland Tourism, Events & Economic Development, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, Bronze Partners: Hudson Gavin Martin, Ernst & Young, Lion Nathan Breweries, and Delegates Wine Estates and Media Partner Unlimited.

Spark consists of two challenges – the $100k and Ideas Challenge. Vision 2 Business (V2B), a free speaker and training seminar series and Ideas 2 Business Workshop (I2B), complement the challenges.

Now in heading in its tenth year, Spark has supported various ventures into business incubation at The ICEHOUSE and into the wider business community.

Spark is proud to have supported all of these endeavours, as they illustrate the ambition and leadership that lies within The University of Auckland. The entrepreneurial infrastructure that exists is unique in New Zealand, opening endless opportunities for students, staff, and the wider community.