Simplifying microsurgery with Avasa

The Caffeine Podcast’s first series, ‘Seed to success: Building and backing Kiwi startups’, showcases Kiwi startups with high-growth potential across different sectors, giving insights into what it takes to build a successful company from New Zealand – and just how much of a slog it can be. 

Sponsored by New Zealand Growth Capital Partners (NZGCP), this episode features host Fiona Rotherham and guests Dr Nandoun Abeysekera, founder and CEO of healthtech startup Avasa; Kate de Ridder, Bridgewest Ventures’ senior portfolio investment manager; and Darsel Keane, director of University of Auckland’s Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. 

The episode underscores the challenges and opportunities in New Zealand’s startup landscape, focusing on collaboration, continuous learning and resilience. It also emphasises the importance of aligning vision, fun and community support for startup success.

Here’s an AI-generated overview of the podcast themes. Listen here or watch here.

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Community and mentorship‍

Abeysekera shares his journey developing medical device startup Avasa. He emphasises the critical role of community support and mentorship in turning an idea into a tangible product. His experience highlights the importance of involving experienced professionals and seeking guidance throughout development.

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Deeptech investment challenges‍

De Ridder discusses Bridgewest Ventures’ role in supporting deeptech startups, pointing out the added risks and the need for patience in such investments. Her perspective underscores the unique challenges deeptech ventures face compared to other types of startups.

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Nurturing entrepreneurship‍

Keane discusses the significance of entrepreneurship education and how programmes like the University of Auckland’s Velocity nurture innovative ideas and talent, contributing to the growth of the startup ecosystem. She underscores the need for structured support and education to foster entrepreneurship.