Creative HQ — Wellington's Two-Decade Startup Accelerator and Innovation Hub

Creative HQ is Wellington's premier startup accelerator and innovation hub, founded to grow a diverse range of high-potential companies and anchor New Zealand's capital as a technology and entrepreneurship centre. Supported by Callaghan Innovation (New Zealand's national innovation agency) and with links to Wellington City Council, it has operated for over 20 years.
Over that period Creative HQ has supported more than 1,500 founders and 450 companies, generating a combined NZ$128 million annual contribution to the economy and creating 1,300 jobs. Alumni include Sharesies (New Zealand's largest retail investment platform) and Hnry (payroll and tax platform for contractors). The hub operates multiple programmes: a 5-week Mini Accelerator for Wellington-based founders, a 12-week Climate Response Accelerator for impact entrepreneurs, and partnership with Startup Genome and the global Startup World Cup (hosting the 2024 New Zealand Final with 11 competing ventures).
Creative HQ won the 'Best Contribution to the Tech Sector' award at the NZ Hi-Tech Awards, independently recognising its role in Wellington's technology ecosystem. Its mission is to develop 400 thriving, high-growth companies by 2030. The Climate Response Accelerator targets impact entrepreneurs solving urgent environmental challenges, offering funding, mentorship and tools for Aotearoa New Zealand ventures.

Read the full analysis: https://creativehq.co.nz/