2025 Hillary Innovation Summit

Earlybird closes 31 January 2025!

We are excited to have over 100 Fellows attending the 2025 Hillary Innovation Summit, plus NZ innovation ecosystem leaders, from across government, Māori organisations, and the philanthropy and investment sectors, and more. We want to support as many of you as possible to be there, so get your Earlybird ticket before 31 January to secure your spot, and save $500! Spaces are limited.

The Hillary Institute & Edmund Hillary Fellowship are hosting the 2025 Hillary Innovation Summit on 17-18 February 2025 at the Waipuna Hotel and Conference Centre in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.

The 2025 Summit is bringing together up to 300 local and international leaders in person over two days to explore how we can collectively build Aotearoa NZ as a basecamp for a better world and where we can lead globally.

It will convene Hillary Laureates, Edmund Hillary Fellows, iwi and Māori organisations, local and global investors, entrepreneurs, system designers, and public and private sector leaders.

At the Summit:

• Gain insights from global leaders who have made markets, redesigned systems and influenced the world for good
• Explore what’s coming in the ‘Future of …’ forums, and opportunities for NZ to lead
• Collaborate on how we can build Aotearoa NZ’s innovation ecosystem together
• Identify pathways to action including in climate and planetary health

Get your Earlybird ticket today to secure your spot and save $500! Spaces are limited. Earlybird closes 31 January 2025.

The two-day Summit programme features world-leading international keynotes, innovative panel discussions, EHF Transformative Venture demos, networking, collaboration opportunities and more. With te ao Māori, wellbeing and creativity interwoven throughout, participants will also get the chance to engage in breakout forums focused on the Summit’s key themes:

2025 Summit Programme

Future Of

Showcasing opportunities where NZ can adapt and lead, including the future of:

• regenerative finance and new models of capital

• mobility and transportation

• space and aerospace

• education

• mental health and AI

Building NZ’s Innovation Economy

Exploring how we attract talent, investment and connections to scale globally and generate sustainable value for people and planet, including:

• unlocking capital and capability

• the Māori innovation economy

• supporting NZ founders to go global

• addressing limiting beliefs

Planetary Action

Grounding in te ao Māori, catalysing solutions for how Aotearoa NZ can decarbonise and protect taiao/nature, including:

• Energy transition: renewable solutions

• Climate adaptation and resilient communities

• Regenerate finance models

Day 1 - 17 FEBRUARY 2025

Day 2 - 18 FEBRUARY 2025

8.00am	Registration Opens
9.00am	Mihi Whakatau
9.15am	Hillary Institute and EHF Welcome Rosalie Nelson and Michelle Parker
9.30am	Hillary Family Address
9.45am	MC Welcome Mikaere Paki and Melissa Chan-Green
10.00am	Opening International Keynote: Life at the Climate Frontline - Pathways for Action in the South Pacific His Excellency provides firsthand insight into the experience of Pacific countries facing climate devastation, amidst geopolitical change. Gain insight into: Escalating climate impacts on land, livelihoods and marine environments Geopolitical trends and the implication for Pacific peoples The case for adaptation and migration with dignity The power of global cooperation across indigenous and western cultures, including Aotearoa NZ His Excellency Anote Tong, 2012 Hillary Laureate; Former President,The Republic of Kiribati; Chair, The Pacific Elders Voice (PEV)
10.45am	Morning Break - Say hello to someone new!
11.15am	Aotearoa NZ Keynote: How Does NZ Move Forward - Thinking Long-Term Discover why a shift from short-term, transactional decision-making to long-term, strategic thinking is vital for Aotearoa NZ’s innovation future. Gain a deeper understanding of: The productivity and economic challenges central to tackling critical issues facing Aotearoa NZ How NZ’s geopolitical and strategic realities intersect with rapid social, environmental, and technological change The important role of science and innovation in shaping Aotearoa NZ’s future Strategies to remove barriers hindering Aotearoa NZ’s aspirations Sir Peter Gluckman, President, International Science Council; Distinguished University Professor, University of Auckland
11.45am	Panel Discussion: Accelerating Aotearoa NZ’s Innovation Economy Aotearoa NZ has a thriving startup ecosystem - but faces unique challenges in scaling. Globally we rank as an emerging ecosystem (#20) by StartUp Genome. With a startup density half that of global peers, NZ startups work with materially less money, take longer to raise capital than offshore peers, and scaling for global growth remains a challenge. This panel of innovation leaders will explore: The current state and unique strengths that we can build on today Ambition, capital, talent, global market access: Critical levers for growth Barriers and pathways forward to accelerate NZ’s innovation economy Marcel van den Assum, Chair, Sprout Agritech; Investor and Independent Director Robyn Kamira, Founder & Principal, Paua Interface Third panelist TBC
12.30pm	Lunch Break - Explore the natural surrounds of Waipuna
1.30pm	Transforming How We Move: New Horizons in Sustainable Mobility From autonomous vehicles and electric aircraft to revolutions in supply chain, logistics and space tourism, the future of mobility is being boldly reimagined - and it will change everything, everywhere, all at once. What disruptive technologies and groundbreaking ventures will shape the next generation of transportation? How will these advancements impact industries, societies, and the way we move? What are the opportunities for Aotearoa NZ? Adam Grosser, EHF Fellow; Chairman & Managing Partner, UP.Partners Case Study: How Mobility, Connectivity and AI are Driving the Future of Aviation from NZ Mobile devices with ubiquitous connectivity are transforming the airline industry, enhancing safety and efficiency, and elevating the guest experience. AI will accelerate this transformation. Learn how Apple and Air New Zealand are working together to move the industry forward and the unique opportunities this presents for Aotearoa to lead the future. Michael Tchao, EHF Fellow; VP Product Marketing, Apple
2.30pm	Take a moment and make your way to your first breakout session
2.45pm	Future Of
	The Future Of: Aviation Michael Tchao, VP Product Marketing, Apple
	Innovation Economy
	Part 1: Challenging Status Quo Approaches to Innovation in NZ Explore how to leverage Aotearoa NZ’s inherent strengths and overcome barriers to accelerate innovation, focusing on Auckland's emerging tech landscape. Join a candid panel of experts who will challenge status quo strategies, and share what has worked, what hasn’t, and why. This is the first of two sessions, focused on finding workable solutions that Summit attendees can commit to participate in. Mark Bregman, EHF Fellow; General Partner, Quidnet Ventures (provocateur) Laina Greene, EHF Fellow; CEO & Founder, Angels of Impact (rapporteur) Maile Giffin, Growth Programme Specialist, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited *Panelists:* Mat Rowe, Founding Partner, Outset Ventures Sean Simpson, Founder, Lanzatech Peter Crabtree, Former Head, NZ Space Agency Will Charles, Investment Director, Auckland Uniservices
	Planetary Action
	Case Study: Catalysing Ocean-Based Ventures for the Pacific Dive deep into a case study of how a blended finance model has catalysed new ocean-based ventures in Aotearoa NZ - and explore how it might be applied as a new model for Pacific climate innovation. Nigel Bradly, Founder & CEO, Envirostrat Larry Tchiou, EHF Fellow; Pacific Climate Entrepreneur
3.30pm	Afternoon Break - Extend your discussion over a cuppa or enjoy a pause in nature
4.00pm	Future Of
	The Future Of: Space and Aerospace Ranked fourth in the world for rocket launches and a leader of innovation in solar-powered unmanned aircraft, Aotearoa NZ’s space industry was estimated to be worth $1.69B in 2019, and is on track to be doubled. Join NZ and global space innovators to explore how NZ can be put on the map as a sustainable space leader. Emeline Paat-Dahlstrom, EHF Fellow; Co-Founder & CEO, SpaceBase Eric Dahlstrom, EHF Fellow; Co-Founder & CTO, SpaceBase Robbie Schingler, EHF Fellow; Co-Founder & Chief Strategy Officer, Planet Labs
	Innovation Economy
	Strengthening the NZ Innovation Economy through Asia-Pacific Partnerships The Asia NZ Foundation Amarit Charoenphan, EHF Fellow; Co-Founder, HUBBA; President, New Zealand Thai Chamber of Commerce
	Planetary Action
	Partnering for Impact: Building Public-Private Collaborations for Climate Resilience Strong partnerships across public and private sector, tangata whenua and communities are essential to address climate imperatives in our cities and regions. Explore examples of impactful local collaboration, lessons learned, and pathways to building strong partnerships for greater climate resilience. Climate Connect Aotearoa
4.45pm	Make your way to the Theatre for the quickfire EHF Fellow demo!
4.50pm	Quickfire EHF Transformative Venture Demos (Round 1) From climate action to transformational technologies, EHF Fellows are creating tangible impact all across the globe - revolutionising industries, redesigning systems and generating meaningful change for people and the planet. Get a glimpse into some EHF Fellow ventures in these 5min Quickfire Transformative Venture Demos.
5.20pm	Summit Day One Wrap-Up
5.30pm	Summit Day One End
5.30pm - 6.30pm	Connection Hour Continue discussions from day one, or relax and catch-up with new and familiar faces over a drink
7.00pm - 9.00pm	Summit Day One Dinner

8.30am	Arrival Tea and Coffee
9.00am	Summit Day Two Welcome
9.15am	Quickfire EHF Transformative Venture Demos (Round 2) Start day two of the Summit with a second round of 5min Quickfire Transformative Venture Demos by EHF Fellows who are creating impact all across the globe - making meaningful change for people and the planet.
9.45am	International Keynote: The Power of Small Business to Unlock Climate-Smart Growth Small businesses must play a crucial role in solving climate change. They are key drivers of economic output globally, make up a significant portion of supply chains for large corporations and are often the engine of ingenuity and innovation. Yet they are disproportionately vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and face unique challenges in accessing emerging opportunities. So how do we empower small businesses to build resilience and lead climate solutions? Join us to hear about: Reflections on COP29 - and the grounds for optimism The importance of empowering small business in climate mitigation, adaptation, and resilience solutions Three keys to unlocking the power of small business Global case studies - and the potential for Aotearoa NZ Aimée Christensen, CEO, Christensen Global Strategies; Founding Executive Director, Sun Valley Institute for Resilience
10.15am	International Keynote: Regenerative Finance and New Models of Social Impact Traditional finance has been criticised as being extractive and destructive. However change is occurring as new models of regenerative finance and investment emerge that benefit society and the planet. In this session, discover what the future can look like, addressing: What are the principles of Regenerative Finance? What are examples and results of these principles in action? How can Aotearoa NZ use these emerging tools and concepts to advance our global impact? Geoff Davis, Chair, Social Capital Markets (SOCAP); Senior Advisor and Former CEO, Sorenson Impact Institute
10.45am	Morning Break
11.15am	Future Of
	The Future Of: Generative AI and Healthcare Xincheng Zhang, EHF Fellow; Co-Founder & CTO, QTC Care
	Innovation Economy
	The Māori Innovation Economy Shay Wright, EHF Fellow; Co-Founder, Te Whare Hukahuka
	Planetary Action
	Regenerative Finance Models Geoff Davis, Chair, Social Capital Markets (SOCAP) Aimée Christensen, CEO, Christensen Global Strategies
12.00pm	Switch Rooms
12.15am	Future Of
	The Future Of: Education Joanne McEachen, EHF Fellow; Founder, The Learner First Nikora Ngaropo, EHF Fellow; Founder, NNMD Rangimarie Parata Takurua, EHF Fellow; Founder, Te Pā o Rākaihautū
	Innovation Economy
	Part 2: Seeking Solutions To Accelerate and Increase the Impact of NZ Innovation Dive into the challenges identified in Part 1 of this 2 part session, and develop specific plans of action, roles and commitments in making the solutions happen. Mark Bregman, EHF Fellow; General Partner, Quidnet Ventures (provocateur) Laina Greene, EHF Fellow; CEO & Founder, Angels of Impact (rapporteur) Maile Giffin, Growth Programme Specialist, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Danielle MacKenzie
	Planetary Action
	Developing the Energy Sector for Success Ara Ake
1.00pm	Lunch Break - Enjoy some kai with others
2.00pm	Future Of
	The Future Of: AI Kaye-Maree Dunn, EHF Fellow; Director, Making Everything Achievable and Āhau
	Innovation Economy
	Founder First: How Do We Connect and Support Our Innovation Leaders? TBC
	Planetary Action
	‘I Am The River, The River Is Me’ - Unlocking the Power of Rights of Nature We need a value shift in how we relate to nature: from thinking about nature as an asset to be owned and exploited, to recognising we are nature - there is no division - and we must steward and guard it. View in advance the powerful documentary by EHF Fellows Corinne van Egeraat & Petr Lom: ‘I am the River and the River is Me’: then be part of a kōrero about how we can collaborate for impact, led by the Māori leaders and activists who helped catalyse this global movement. Tamahau Rowe, Te Āti Awa Taranaki Whānui Ned Tapa and Stewart Reweti, Whanganui River Guardians
2.45pm	Make your way back to the Theatre
3.00pm	Connection Hour
4.00pm	Summit Wrap-Up: What Was Heard and Next Steps
4.30pm	Summit Closing and End

GET YOUR EARLYBIRD TICKET TODAY

Summit Hosts

Ngāti Apa, Ngā Wairiki, Tuwharetoa, Ngāti Kauwhata, Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Paoa, Kai Tahu, Tumatakōkiri, Irish & Welsh

Mikaere Paki is an inspiring facilitator and leader who has welcomed over 250 EHF Fellows into Aotearoa NZ at our Welcome Experiences. He is celebrated for his ability to create connections between people, emphasising the importance of celebrating who we are before what we do. Many Fellows say their view of the world has been transformed by the way in which Mikaere has introduced them to the te ao Māori worldview, with grace, generosity and insight.

Weaving tikanga Māori into all aspects of his work and championing the normalisation of Te Reo me ōna Tikanga across Aotearoa NZ, Mikaere has over 20 years of leadership experience in the education sector, specialising in Māori strategy design, development, implementation, and engagement.

Mikaere Paki - Senior Executive

Melissa Chan-Green - Journalist and Media Presenter

Melissa Chan-Green is an award-winning journalist with two decades of experience in broadcasting across New Zealand, the UK, and Europe. She was most recently the co-host of TV3’s AM Show. Over the course of her career, Melissa has reported from some of the world’s most pivotal historical moments, including the Arab Spring uprisings and the landmark Paris Agreement negotiations. Melissa is especially interested in the intersection of media, technology, and the future of storytelling, and is currently working on a project with the education sector.

International Keynote Speakers

His Excellency Anote Tong - 2012 Hillary Laureate

Life at the Climate Frontline - Pathways for Action in the South Pacific

Former President of the Republic of Kiribati, His Excellency Anote Tong is a decorated climate advocate, current Chair of the Pacific Elders Voice (PEV) group and a former Board Member and Distinguished Fellow of Conservation International. He has been awarded the SunHak Peace Prize and has been twice nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. He is the 2012 Hillary Laureate and currently holds the Peter Benchley Ocean Award, as well as others, for his work on climate change and ocean conservation. Anote is a leading voice on the impact of climate in the South Pacific. Anote will speak to the lived experience of Pacific countries facing climate devastation, analyse geopolitical trends and the power of global cooperation across indigenous and western cultures.

Transforming How We Move: New Horizons in Sustainable Mobility

Adam is a recognised global leader in startup and sustainable mobility investment. He is currently Chairman and Managing Partner of UP Partners, which invests in pioneering entrepreneurs and technologies that help move people and goods cleaner, faster, safer, and at lower cost. In 2021, UP Partners closed a $230 million early stage VC fund dedicated to enabling technologies for sustainable mobility, such as electric aviation, autonomous transportation, advanced robotics and aerospace. Adam also hosts the UP Summit which brings together the world’s most innovative minds to rethink the future of transportation.

Adam Grosser - Edmund Hillary Fellow

Aimée Christensen - 2011 Hillary Laureate

Renewable Energy Transition

CEO of Christensen Global Strategies and the founding Executive Director of the Sun Valley Institute for Resilience, Aimée has 25 years of experience in climate change and sustainability strategy. She works at the intersection of global policy, investment, industry and innovation to develop solutions for a strong clean global economy, healthy communities and protection of our natural resources. Her clients have included the Clinton Global Initiative, Duke Energy, the Elders, FEMSA, the Global Ocean Commission, Microsoft, Ogilvy, the Rockefeller Brothers Fund, Swiss Re, the United Nations Development Program, the United Nations Foundation and Virgin Unite.

Geoff Davis - Chair, Social Capital Markets (SOCAP) & Former CEO Sorenson Impact Institute

Regenerative Finance and New Models of Social Impact

Geoff is a multi-time founder/CEO and impact investor using entrepreneurship and investment to help people and the planet. His organisations have invested in more than 200 high-impact companies globally, lent more than $3.5 billion to over 14 million small businesses worldwide, and helped over 12 million families work their way out of poverty. As Senior Advisor, and former CEO, of Sorenson Impact Institute, part of the Sorenson Impact Group, Geoff advises families, entrepreneurs and organisations on creative use of capital. He chairs SOCAP, sits on MIT’s Solve fund investment committee, and is Senior Advisor at Cicero Group. Previously, he co-founded Cicero Impact Capital, was CEO of Unitus, a microfinance pioneer, and led the Perpetual Education Fund, enabling the creation of 50,000 small businesses in 100 countries.

Sir Peter Gluckman - President of the International Science Council

How does New Zealand Move Forward: Thinking Long-Term

Sir Peter is an internationally renowned science leader, currently serving as the President of the International Science Council and Distinguished University Professor at the University of Auckland, where he leads Koi Tū: The Centre for Informed Futures. Last year Sir Peter was appointed by the Government to lead a review on strengthening Aotearoa NZ's science, innovation and technology system, including challenges, aspirations and opportunities for growth. He was Aotearoa NZ’s first Chief Science Advisor to the Prime Minister (2009-2018), and the Foundation Chair of the International Network of Government Science Advice (2014-2021). Sir Peter has made many significant contributions to science policy and science diplomacy globally. He is the recipient of numerous prestigious honours, including the Rutherford Medal, the Singapore Presidential Science and Technology Medal, and the American Association for Advancement of Sciences Science Diplomacy Award.