Entries from February 2010 ↓

Manawatu Investment Group (MIG) has successfully led an investment in excess of $1 million into functional food business Speirs Nutritionals Partners LP. Speirs Nutritionals is commercialising Massey University developed technology that allows very high loadings of beneficial Omega 3 oils to be included in every day food items, with no impact on the product’s smell or taste.

In March 2009 Speirs Nutritionals signed a world-wide distribution deal with Croda International, a United Kingdom based publically listed company. Through Croda’s international market channels Speirs Nutritionals’ Omega 3 technology is marketed under the brand Omelife.

Dean Tilyard, Chief Executive of Manawatu Investment Group described the investment as a significant capital raising for an early stage New Zealand technology business. Tilyard says ”the climate for early stage capital raising remains tight and this investment reflects the strong technology underpinning Speirs Nutritionals and the significant progress the business has made in establishing a global marketing channel”.

In addition to Manawatu Investment Group the investors include the New Zealand Venture Investment Fund and K One W One Limited.

Speirs Nutritionals Chairman Rodney Wong welcomed the involvement of the new investors adding that the new capital comes at a time when the business is transitioning from a focus on technology development to one supporting sales activity through its international partner.

Kevin McCaffrey runs Effective Governance, an independent privately-owned consulting firm that delivers advice on Corporate Governance to clients in New Zealand and Australia.  Kevin will discuss governance across all sectors of society and its power in making a difference. This will include how to do due diligence as a director.

When: Tuesday 16th Feb, 5.30-7.30pm
Where: Russell McVeagh, Level 24, Vodafone on the Park.

We look seeing you there, where you’ll have the opportunity to talk with Kevin and network with your Wellington peers.

Simon Telfer, co-founder of SpringBoard’s national group, who will talk more about SpringBoard and governance.

For more info and to RSVP, see the Springboard Wellington LinkedIn Group.

Unlimited Potential are running a Damsel’s Den event, where you can “get to know local angels before you pitch your brilliant idea to them. Angel HQ and Unlimited Potential matchmake our entrepreneurs and investors.”

When: Tuesday 9 March 2010 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Where: Deloittes 10 Brandon Street, Wellington
RSVP: Unlimited Potential
Special Guest: Bill Payne

I always advise entrepreneurs to get to know their local angels well in advance of even thinking about asking them to invest.  This evening will be a perfect opportunity to network, practice some lines before using them in a pitch, and meet other entrepreneurs and investors.

See you there!