The Activator Programme

For Emerging Rural Women Entrepreneurs

Funded by Rural Women NZ & the Ministry for Primary Industries — fully free to participate, with all travel and accommodation covered.

The Activator Programme connects emerging rural entrepreneurs with a panel of experienced business advisors to turn ideas into action.

If the below sounds familiar, then the Activator may be for you.

You have a brilliant business idea — but feel stuck on where to start

You've created a fantastic product — but you're not sure how to reach new customers

Your website looks great — but the traffic just isn't showing up

Express your interest for 2026/2027

About Activator

Activator supports rural women entrepreneurs and innovators to develop and grow their businesses.

Rural Women New Zealand connects emerging rural entrepreneurs with a panel of experienced business advisors to turn ideas into action. You'll receive a 45-minute deep dive with experts who zero in on your specific challenges, a personalised action plan you build together, and follow-up support to keep the momentum going. You'll also connect with other rural women in business — sharing stories, experiences and real solutions.

It won't cost you a thing. All travel and accommodation costs are fully covered.

We are already planning for 2026/27. Complete the Expression of Interest form online and we will be in touch to see how we can place you in the programme. You don’t have to be a Rural Women member to apply.

Thank you to the wonderfully capable and knowledgeable panelists who make themselves available to sit on the panel to encourage, motivate, reassure, suggest, collaborate with and light a fire under the Activators.

Hear from our previous Activators

  • “Rural Women New Zealand's Activator Programme was really inspirational, and helped focus my thoughts on where the business was at and where I wanted to go with it.”

    — Kate, 2025 attendee.

  • “Oh my goodness - I got so much out of yesterday… in fact, I’m absolutely fizzing with excitement. I feel like those gorgeous people unblocked something in me. Watch this space…”

    - 2025 attendee.