New Zealand is a nation of innovators full of great ideas and inventions, but how do we turn these ideas into successful businesses?
The Innovate conference in Christchurch next week hopes to find some answers.
It will focus on the tools of business development - the practicalities of making a great idea
work.
Delegates will include businesses with new ideas or the potential to grow, venture capitalists, business advisers, economic development agencies and industry associations.
Traditional conference elements - plenary speakers, workshops and panel discussions - will form part of the event, as well as an exhibition of up to 100 innovative companies.
Short workshops will cover topics such as:
* Putting together a business strategy.
* Developing a marketing plan.
* Protecting intellectual property.
* Exporting.
* Approaching a venture capitalist.
Small and medium-sized businesses are expected to make up most of the 500 delegates.
Watch this space next week for conference feedback.
Innovate
