FAQ

Can I apply if our company or founders are not from New Zealand?

Yes, we welcome applications from anywhere.   We can provide further information on the likely immigration issues and living and working in New Zealand. Check out the Wellington page.

Can I apply on my own?

The short answer is No.  But contact us to discuss your idea as we don’t want to miss out on great opportunities.  We may be able to give you some pointers or contacts for getting co-founders on board.

Do I need to send in a business plan?

No, complete the application form and send us regular updates

When is the deadline to apply and what’s the overall timeline?

For the 2013 class, applications open 12 September 2012 and will close 5 December 2012 (11.59pm).

Will you sign a Non Disclosure Agreement?  How will I protect my Idea?

Your application is confidential to the Lightning Lab founding investors and management team and will not be shown to anyone else.  As we see lots of ideas in similar spaces we won’t sign an NDA.

Can I contact Mentors or Investors directly?

Contacting investors or mentors in an effort to increase your chances of getting into the Lightning Lab will probably be annoying and hurt rather than help you.  The final decision on successful applicants will be made by the investors.  Mentors are dedicated to helping companies but are not part of the selection process.   Instead provide regular updates via your application form.

If you have any questions not covered in the FAQs, we’re more than happy to talk to you about this further.