Funding Available at Massey
At Massey Ventures we provide access to early stage investment through three fund types:
Massey Ventures provides access to PreSeed Accelerator Funding to commercialise University research.
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At Tier 1 you can access up to $80k for initial work. E.g., Proof of concept, Intellectual property protection, or market validation.
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At Tier 2 you can access $250k or more for technical development, patents, market research, industry engagement, developing a business model, licensing, and forming a start-up.
Learn More
Commercialisation Funding
The Student Investment Fund supports Massey University Student entrepreneurs in the technical development of their start-ups.
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Students can access up to $25k investment, along with a work-space on campus and mentorship.
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Follow the link below to find out more and apply.
Learn More
Student Investment Fund
Massey Ventures impact investment can be used for projects that benefit society and local communities.
Impact projects need a clear link to the University, such as building on Massey Research or involving strategically important communities
While the project does not need to be hugely profitable, it does need to be financially viable and self-sustaining.
Learn More
Impact
Investment
Intellectual Property at Massey
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Who is eligible for the Student Investment Fund?To be eligible for the Student Investment Fund applicants must: include at least one founder who is currently enrolled at Massey University and studying a minimum of 30-credits per semester; be based in New Zealand; be able to set up a NZ company (some visa's prohibit this); have an idea or business seeking early stage funding; have a great attitude.
-
What ideas can receive funding?Massey Ventures are open to most ideas that align with Massey University's policies. Some things we don't invest in include the sale of: alcohol; tobacco; gambling; fossil fuels; weapons.
-
What if I'm not ready to start a business?Thats okay! If you aren't quite ready, you can check out other opportunities for students such as our Master's Bursaries.
-
Is the Student Investment Fund a grant or free money?No, this is not a grant or free money. Investment received will be on a SAFE note which is a legally binding agreement to exchange money now for equity in the company in the future. This is a real investment that we expect you to take seriously.
-
How does a SAFE note work?A SAFE note (Standard Agreement for Future Equity), is an investment loan. Unlike a typical loan that you would pay back in cash, the SAFE note is paid back with equity in your company in the future. Essentially, you receive early-stage investment to get your business moving. In return, you agree to give Massey Ventures Ltd a shareholding in your company at a future date. If you are unsure about how a SAFE note works our team are happy to talk you through it. Before you agree to anything, Massey Ventures can also organise free legal advice for you.
-
Do I have to give up control of my business?In short, no. If you receive investment, Massey Ventures Ltd will have a small shareholding in your company once the SAFE note converts at a qualifying financing round. Smaller shareholders tend not to have as much influence over the company as large shareholders do. If you want to learn more about governance and how shareholders can influence business decisions, come talk to our team.
-
What happens to my intellectual property?As a student, you own the rights to your intellectual property. You can either transfer your intellectual property into your company, or we can hold your intellectual property "on trust" until you are ready to incorporate your company.
-
How much funding can I get?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. You will need to provide a budget based on realistic costs and quotes. You can get a maximum of $25,000 provided the investment committee deems it necessary to achieve your milestones.
-
Do I get all of the funding straight away?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. You will receive the funding in tranches to achieve each milestone. Once you achieve a milestone, you can access the next tranche of funding for the next milestone.
-
What can I spend the funding on?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. To be granted investment, you must be able to show how your spending contributes to achieving one of your milestones. While you can use the money to pay for products and services, you cannot use the the funding to pay yourself a wage. If you are unsure, you can speak with the Massey Ventures team or your Student Investment Fund Mentor to learn what is and isn't acceptable.
-
How much time do I need to commit to the company?There is no minimum hourly requirement beyond your meetings with your advisor. However, Massey Ventures may withhold investment if you do not achieve your tranche milestones. It is up to you to put in the effort required.
-
How do I keep Massey Ventures updated on my progress?We recognise that as students and entrepreneurs you are busy. You are required to attend monthly meetings with an advisor and provide update reports at 3-month (halfway) and 6-month (end) marks. You can also contact your advisor at any time if you need support.
-
What if something unexpected affects my plans?These things happen. Massey Ventures will work with you to update your plans and milestones accordingly.
-
What if my business fails?We appreciate that your startup might not go to plan. Come chat to our team about what this will mean for you.
-
What if I need more investment?Massey Ventures can introduce you to other potential investors that fit with your business. Like us, most investors will want a share of your business (equity) in return for their investment. Massey Ventures Ltd can help you decide what is a fair deal.
Intellectual property (IP) management helps to protect creations of the mind. Below are some common types of intellectual property that you may encounter on your commercialisation journey.
If you think any of the following apply to your research, contact us as soon as possible.
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Intellectual Property Ownership
University Funded Intellectual Property​
In general, Massey University claims legal and beneficial ownership of all Intellectual Property Rights generated under the auspices of the University (see the University's Intellectual Property Policy). This might include research they have funded, or work that was conducted by University employees.
If the intellectual property shows commercial potential, the Massey Ventures team will work with the creators to protect and commercialise the intellectual property. The University offer several benefits for staff that choose to work with us and commercialise their ideas.
If the University decides they no longer wish to commercialise the intellectual property then individuals can request that the intellectual property rights be transferred to the inventors.
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Student Intellectual Property
It is Massey Ventures' position that any intellectual property that is solely generated by students remains the property of that student. However, if the student wishes, they can still access funding and support from Massey Ventures.
Benefit Sharing at Massey
Massey Ventures’ commercialisation deals are structured to ensure inventors receive a fair share of the benefits, such as percentage of net revenue or equity shares in a spinout company. The inventors’ collective benefit share is typically between 30-70%, depending on their contributions as an Inventor and whether they continue their involvement as a Founder.
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Every project is different. That’s why Massey Ventures are flexible when negotiating a deal that ensures each party’s contributions are fairly reflected. The graphic below gives some examples of how Massey Ventures has negotiated deals in the past. Keep in mind that deals are subject to the terms of the agreement and that benefit shares may change over time; for example, to reflect additional investment from Massey Ventures or a third party.
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Who is eligible for the Student Investment Fund?To be eligible for the Student Investment Fund applicants must: include at least one founder who is currently enrolled at Massey University and studying a minimum of 30-credits per semester; be based in New Zealand; be able to set up a NZ company (some visa's prohibit this); have an idea or business seeking early stage funding; have a great attitude.
-
What ideas can receive funding?Massey Ventures are open to most ideas that align with Massey University's policies. Some things we don't invest in include the sale of: alcohol; tobacco; gambling; fossil fuels; weapons.
-
What if I'm not ready to start a business?Thats okay! If you aren't quite ready, you can check out other opportunities for students such as our Master's Bursaries.
-
Is the Student Investment Fund a grant or free money?No, this is not a grant or free money. Investment received will be on a SAFE note which is a legally binding agreement to exchange money now for equity in the company in the future. This is a real investment that we expect you to take seriously.
-
How does a SAFE note work?A SAFE note (Standard Agreement for Future Equity), is an investment loan. Unlike a typical loan that you would pay back in cash, the SAFE note is paid back with equity in your company in the future. Essentially, you receive early-stage investment to get your business moving. In return, you agree to give Massey Ventures Ltd a shareholding in your company at a future date. If you are unsure about how a SAFE note works our team are happy to talk you through it. Before you agree to anything, Massey Ventures can also organise free legal advice for you.
-
Do I have to give up control of my business?In short, no. If you receive investment, Massey Ventures Ltd will have a small shareholding in your company once the SAFE note converts at a qualifying financing round. Smaller shareholders tend not to have as much influence over the company as large shareholders do. If you want to learn more about governance and how shareholders can influence business decisions, come talk to our team.
-
What happens to my intellectual property?As a student, you own the rights to your intellectual property. You can either transfer your intellectual property into your company, or we can hold your intellectual property "on trust" until you are ready to incorporate your company.
-
How much funding can I get?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. You will need to provide a budget based on realistic costs and quotes. You can get a maximum of $25,000 provided the investment committee deems it necessary to achieve your milestones.
-
Do I get all of the funding straight away?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. You will receive the funding in tranches to achieve each milestone. Once you achieve a milestone, you can access the next tranche of funding for the next milestone.
-
What can I spend the funding on?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. To be granted investment, you must be able to show how your spending contributes to achieving one of your milestones. While you can use the money to pay for products and services, you cannot use the the funding to pay yourself a wage. If you are unsure, you can speak with the Massey Ventures team or your Student Investment Fund Mentor to learn what is and isn't acceptable.
-
How much time do I need to commit to the company?There is no minimum hourly requirement beyond your meetings with your advisor. However, Massey Ventures may withhold investment if you do not achieve your tranche milestones. It is up to you to put in the effort required.
-
How do I keep Massey Ventures updated on my progress?We recognise that as students and entrepreneurs you are busy. You are required to attend monthly meetings with an advisor and provide update reports at 3-month (halfway) and 6-month (end) marks. You can also contact your advisor at any time if you need support.
-
What if something unexpected affects my plans?These things happen. Massey Ventures will work with you to update your plans and milestones accordingly.
-
What if my business fails?We appreciate that your startup might not go to plan. Come chat to our team about what this will mean for you.
-
What if I need more investment?Massey Ventures can introduce you to other potential investors that fit with your business. Like us, most investors will want a share of your business (equity) in return for their investment. Massey Ventures Ltd can help you decide what is a fair deal.
-
Who is eligible for the Student Investment Fund?To be eligible for the Student Investment Fund applicants must: include at least one founder who is currently enrolled at Massey University and studying a minimum of 30-credits per semester; be based in New Zealand; be able to set up a NZ company (some visa's prohibit this); have an idea or business seeking early stage funding; have a great attitude.
-
What ideas can receive funding?Massey Ventures are open to most ideas that align with Massey University's policies. Some things we don't invest in include the sale of: alcohol; tobacco; gambling; fossil fuels; weapons.
-
What if I'm not ready to start a business?Thats okay! If you aren't quite ready, you can check out other opportunities for students such as our Master's Bursaries.
-
Is the Student Investment Fund a grant or free money?No, this is not a grant or free money. Investment received will be on a SAFE note which is a legally binding agreement to exchange money now for equity in the company in the future. This is a real investment that we expect you to take seriously.
-
How does a SAFE note work?A SAFE note (Standard Agreement for Future Equity), is an investment loan. Unlike a typical loan that you would pay back in cash, the SAFE note is paid back with equity in your company in the future. Essentially, you receive early-stage investment to get your business moving. In return, you agree to give Massey Ventures Ltd a shareholding in your company at a future date. If you are unsure about how a SAFE note works our team are happy to talk you through it. Before you agree to anything, Massey Ventures can also organise free legal advice for you.
-
Do I have to give up control of my business?In short, no. If you receive investment, Massey Ventures Ltd will have a small shareholding in your company once the SAFE note converts at a qualifying financing round. Smaller shareholders tend not to have as much influence over the company as large shareholders do. If you want to learn more about governance and how shareholders can influence business decisions, come talk to our team.
-
What happens to my intellectual property?As a student, you own the rights to your intellectual property. You can either transfer your intellectual property into your company, or we can hold your intellectual property "on trust" until you are ready to incorporate your company.
-
How much funding can I get?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. You will need to provide a budget based on realistic costs and quotes. You can get a maximum of $25,000 provided the investment committee deems it necessary to achieve your milestones.
-
Do I get all of the funding straight away?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. You will receive the funding in tranches to achieve each milestone. Once you achieve a milestone, you can access the next tranche of funding for the next milestone.
-
What can I spend the funding on?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. To be granted investment, you must be able to show how your spending contributes to achieving one of your milestones. While you can use the money to pay for products and services, you cannot use the the funding to pay yourself a wage. If you are unsure, you can speak with the Massey Ventures team or your Student Investment Fund Mentor to learn what is and isn't acceptable.
-
How much time do I need to commit to the company?There is no minimum hourly requirement beyond your meetings with your advisor. However, Massey Ventures may withhold investment if you do not achieve your tranche milestones. It is up to you to put in the effort required.
-
How do I keep Massey Ventures updated on my progress?We recognise that as students and entrepreneurs you are busy. You are required to attend monthly meetings with an advisor and provide update reports at 3-month (halfway) and 6-month (end) marks. You can also contact your advisor at any time if you need support.
-
What if something unexpected affects my plans?These things happen. Massey Ventures will work with you to update your plans and milestones accordingly.
-
What if my business fails?We appreciate that your startup might not go to plan. Come chat to our team about what this will mean for you.
-
What if I need more investment?Massey Ventures can introduce you to other potential investors that fit with your business. Like us, most investors will want a share of your business (equity) in return for their investment. Massey Ventures Ltd can help you decide what is a fair deal.
-
Who is eligible for the Student Investment Fund?To be eligible for the Student Investment Fund applicants must: include at least one founder who is currently enrolled at Massey University and studying a minimum of 30-credits per semester; be based in New Zealand; be able to set up a NZ company (some visa's prohibit this); have an idea or business seeking early stage funding; have a great attitude.
-
What ideas can receive funding?Massey Ventures are open to most ideas that align with Massey University's policies. Some things we don't invest in include the sale of: alcohol; tobacco; gambling; fossil fuels; weapons.
-
What if I'm not ready to start a business?Thats okay! If you aren't quite ready, you can check out other opportunities for students such as our Master's Bursaries.
-
Is the Student Investment Fund a grant or free money?No, this is not a grant or free money. Investment received will be on a SAFE note which is a legally binding agreement to exchange money now for equity in the company in the future. This is a real investment that we expect you to take seriously.
-
How does a SAFE note work?A SAFE note (Standard Agreement for Future Equity), is an investment loan. Unlike a typical loan that you would pay back in cash, the SAFE note is paid back with equity in your company in the future. Essentially, you receive early-stage investment to get your business moving. In return, you agree to give Massey Ventures Ltd a shareholding in your company at a future date. If you are unsure about how a SAFE note works our team are happy to talk you through it. Before you agree to anything, Massey Ventures can also organise free legal advice for you.
-
Do I have to give up control of my business?In short, no. If you receive investment, Massey Ventures Ltd will have a small shareholding in your company once the SAFE note converts at a qualifying financing round. Smaller shareholders tend not to have as much influence over the company as large shareholders do. If you want to learn more about governance and how shareholders can influence business decisions, come talk to our team.
-
What happens to my intellectual property?As a student, you own the rights to your intellectual property. You can either transfer your intellectual property into your company, or we can hold your intellectual property "on trust" until you are ready to incorporate your company.
-
How much funding can I get?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. You will need to provide a budget based on realistic costs and quotes. You can get a maximum of $25,000 provided the investment committee deems it necessary to achieve your milestones.
-
Do I get all of the funding straight away?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. You will receive the funding in tranches to achieve each milestone. Once you achieve a milestone, you can access the next tranche of funding for the next milestone.
-
What can I spend the funding on?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. To be granted investment, you must be able to show how your spending contributes to achieving one of your milestones. While you can use the money to pay for products and services, you cannot use the the funding to pay yourself a wage. If you are unsure, you can speak with the Massey Ventures team or your Student Investment Fund Mentor to learn what is and isn't acceptable.
-
How much time do I need to commit to the company?There is no minimum hourly requirement beyond your meetings with your advisor. However, Massey Ventures may withhold investment if you do not achieve your tranche milestones. It is up to you to put in the effort required.
-
How do I keep Massey Ventures updated on my progress?We recognise that as students and entrepreneurs you are busy. You are required to attend monthly meetings with an advisor and provide update reports at 3-month (halfway) and 6-month (end) marks. You can also contact your advisor at any time if you need support.
-
What if something unexpected affects my plans?These things happen. Massey Ventures will work with you to update your plans and milestones accordingly.
-
What if my business fails?We appreciate that your startup might not go to plan. Come chat to our team about what this will mean for you.
-
What if I need more investment?Massey Ventures can introduce you to other potential investors that fit with your business. Like us, most investors will want a share of your business (equity) in return for their investment. Massey Ventures Ltd can help you decide what is a fair deal.
-
Who is eligible for the Student Investment Fund?To be eligible for the Student Investment Fund applicants must: include at least one founder who is currently enrolled at Massey University and studying a minimum of 30-credits per semester; be based in New Zealand; be able to set up a NZ company (some visa's prohibit this); have an idea or business seeking early stage funding; have a great attitude.
-
What ideas can receive funding?Massey Ventures are open to most ideas that align with Massey University's policies. Some things we don't invest in include the sale of: alcohol; tobacco; gambling; fossil fuels; weapons.
-
What if I'm not ready to start a business?Thats okay! If you aren't quite ready, you can check out other opportunities for students such as our Master's Bursaries.
-
Is the Student Investment Fund a grant or free money?No, this is not a grant or free money. Investment received will be on a SAFE note which is a legally binding agreement to exchange money now for equity in the company in the future. This is a real investment that we expect you to take seriously.
-
How does a SAFE note work?A SAFE note (Standard Agreement for Future Equity), is an investment loan. Unlike a typical loan that you would pay back in cash, the SAFE note is paid back with equity in your company in the future. Essentially, you receive early-stage investment to get your business moving. In return, you agree to give Massey Ventures Ltd a shareholding in your company at a future date. If you are unsure about how a SAFE note works our team are happy to talk you through it. Before you agree to anything, Massey Ventures can also organise free legal advice for you.
-
Do I have to give up control of my business?In short, no. If you receive investment, Massey Ventures Ltd will have a small shareholding in your company once the SAFE note converts at a qualifying financing round. Smaller shareholders tend not to have as much influence over the company as large shareholders do. If you want to learn more about governance and how shareholders can influence business decisions, come talk to our team.
-
What happens to my intellectual property?As a student, you own the rights to your intellectual property. You can either transfer your intellectual property into your company, or we can hold your intellectual property "on trust" until you are ready to incorporate your company.
-
How much funding can I get?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. You will need to provide a budget based on realistic costs and quotes. You can get a maximum of $25,000 provided the investment committee deems it necessary to achieve your milestones.
-
Do I get all of the funding straight away?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. You will receive the funding in tranches to achieve each milestone. Once you achieve a milestone, you can access the next tranche of funding for the next milestone.
-
What can I spend the funding on?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. To be granted investment, you must be able to show how your spending contributes to achieving one of your milestones. While you can use the money to pay for products and services, you cannot use the the funding to pay yourself a wage. If you are unsure, you can speak with the Massey Ventures team or your Student Investment Fund Mentor to learn what is and isn't acceptable.
-
How much time do I need to commit to the company?There is no minimum hourly requirement beyond your meetings with your advisor. However, Massey Ventures may withhold investment if you do not achieve your tranche milestones. It is up to you to put in the effort required.
-
How do I keep Massey Ventures updated on my progress?We recognise that as students and entrepreneurs you are busy. You are required to attend monthly meetings with an advisor and provide update reports at 3-month (halfway) and 6-month (end) marks. You can also contact your advisor at any time if you need support.
-
What if something unexpected affects my plans?These things happen. Massey Ventures will work with you to update your plans and milestones accordingly.
-
What if my business fails?We appreciate that your startup might not go to plan. Come chat to our team about what this will mean for you.
-
What if I need more investment?Massey Ventures can introduce you to other potential investors that fit with your business. Like us, most investors will want a share of your business (equity) in return for their investment. Massey Ventures Ltd can help you decide what is a fair deal.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Who is eligible for the Student Investment Fund?To be eligible for the Student Investment Fund applicants must: include at least one founder who is currently enrolled at Massey University and studying a minimum of 30-credits per semester; be based in New Zealand; be able to set up a NZ company (some visa's prohibit this); have an idea or business seeking early stage funding; have a great attitude.
-
What ideas can receive funding?Massey Ventures are open to most ideas that align with Massey University's policies. Some things we don't invest in include the sale of: alcohol; tobacco; gambling; fossil fuels; weapons.
-
What if I'm not ready to start a business?Thats okay! If you aren't quite ready, you can check out other opportunities for students such as our Master's Bursaries.
-
Is the Student Investment Fund a grant or free money?No, this is not a grant or free money. Investment received will be on a SAFE note which is a legally binding agreement to exchange money now for equity in the company in the future. This is a real investment that we expect you to take seriously.
-
How does a SAFE note work?A SAFE note (Standard Agreement for Future Equity), is an investment loan. Unlike a typical loan that you would pay back in cash, the SAFE note is paid back with equity in your company in the future. Essentially, you receive early-stage investment to get your business moving. In return, you agree to give Massey Ventures Ltd a shareholding in your company at a future date. If you are unsure about how a SAFE note works our team are happy to talk you through it. Before you agree to anything, Massey Ventures can also organise free legal advice for you.
-
Do I have to give up control of my business?In short, no. If you receive investment, Massey Ventures Ltd will have a small shareholding in your company once the SAFE note converts at a qualifying financing round. Smaller shareholders tend not to have as much influence over the company as large shareholders do. If you want to learn more about governance and how shareholders can influence business decisions, come talk to our team.
-
What happens to my intellectual property?As a student, you own the rights to your intellectual property. You can either transfer your intellectual property into your company, or we can hold your intellectual property "on trust" until you are ready to incorporate your company.
-
How much funding can I get?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. You will need to provide a budget based on realistic costs and quotes. You can get a maximum of $25,000 provided the investment committee deems it necessary to achieve your milestones.
-
Do I get all of the funding straight away?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. You will receive the funding in tranches to achieve each milestone. Once you achieve a milestone, you can access the next tranche of funding for the next milestone.
-
What can I spend the funding on?Before you receive the investment, Massey Ventures will work with you to agree on the milestones you need to achieve and the amount of funding required for each milestone. To be granted investment, you must be able to show how your spending contributes to achieving one of your milestones. While you can use the money to pay for products and services, you cannot use the the funding to pay yourself a wage. If you are unsure, you can speak with the Massey Ventures team or your Student Investment Fund Mentor to learn what is and isn't acceptable.
-
How much time do I need to commit to the company?There is no minimum hourly requirement beyond your meetings with your advisor. However, Massey Ventures may withhold investment if you do not achieve your tranche milestones. It is up to you to put in the effort required.
-
How do I keep Massey Ventures updated on my progress?We recognise that as students and entrepreneurs you are busy. You are required to attend monthly meetings with an advisor and provide update reports at 3-month (halfway) and 6-month (end) marks. You can also contact your advisor at any time if you need support.
-
What if something unexpected affects my plans?These things happen. Massey Ventures will work with you to update your plans and milestones accordingly.
-
What if my business fails?We appreciate that your startup might not go to plan. Come chat to our team about what this will mean for you.
-
What if I need more investment?Massey Ventures can introduce you to other potential investors that fit with your business. Like us, most investors will want a share of your business (equity) in return for their investment. Massey Ventures Ltd can help you decide what is a fair deal.