So, you’ve conquered the start-up phase. You’ve built the foundation, proven your concept, and survived the grind. Now comes the next big challenge: sustainable growth. But what does growth really look like in practice?
That was the question at the heart of our last Waipā Tech Series event for 2025, where a panel of seasoned experts shared authentic, no-slides, no-script insights into scaling with purpose.
Each speaker delivered a three-minute snippet of their learnings on growing tech businesses, followed by interactive breakout sessions that gave attendees the chance to dive deeper and exchange ideas.
Key takeaways from the panel
Grant Johnson shared insights from Rocketspark’s partnership model, which transformed their business. By creating tiers for design partners and offering real incentives, Rocketspark built a thriving tech business. His mantra: partnerships require commitment, and “you can’t do partnerships half-pie.”
Emma Macfarlane, SaaS and marketplaces expert, said growth isn’t just about the right model. It’s about fostering culture. Emma emphasised fostering trust and experimentation, being brave enough to make shifts, and investing in relationships. Her advice? Get your foundations right. The “non-glitzy” stuff matters most.
For David Hallett from Company X, growth started with a clear purpose and a strong brand. Positioning in the right niche, understanding data, and focusing on partnerships and strategy were critical. His message: clarity and focus drive sustainable success.
At his breakout session, Josh Starkey from BNZ highlighted the importance of fueling growth through models that work and staying curious about emerging technologies. His passion for tech stems from its power to improve how we live and work. Growth is about embracing that future.
This session delivered practical insights and tools to help grow with confidence. From culture and brand strategy to partnerships and experimentation, the message was clear that growth should be intentional, not accidental.
Closing out a stellar year
This event marked the final session of a very successful 2025 Waipā Tech Series, and we can’t wait to get going again in the New Year. Keep an eye out for upcoming announcements and fresh opportunities to connect, learn, and grow.
A huge thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners who made this year possible, including Rocketspark, Waipā District Council, SODA Inc, Belle PR, and BNZ, and to everyone else who has been involved and participated.
