What if New Zealand is the perfect testing ground for global startups?

This question shaped our fourth episode of 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐤𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐜 & 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐫.

In this conversation, Susan P. Chen, Ph.D. sits down with Jeffrey Ling, CEO of Christchurch City College and long-time startup ecosystem builder across Asia-Pacific, to explore how New Zealand’s unique market size, culture, and community make it an ideal launchpad before expanding into Australia, the U.S., and Europe.

From mentoring over 190 startups to connecting founders with investors and global partners, Jeffrey shares hard-earned insights on scaling beyond borders, adapting go-to-market strategies, and why starting small in New Zealand can lead to big global wins.

Together, they unpack what it really takes for startups to go international without losing their roots.:

-Why use New Zealand as a launchpad before entering larger markets?
-What makes New Zealand a smart testing ground for global startups?
-Helping founders balance local validation with global ambition
-How can startups avoid “thinking small” while starting in a small market?
-What are the biggest mistakes founders make when expanding overseas?

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