Start or Grow Your Dream Business
Soda's Business Fundamentals Online: NZ’s most practical business courses.
Learn proven skills, on your schedule, with insights from Kiwi experts and entrepreneurs.
Feeling Stuck? Get the Skills to Move Forward.
★★★★★
Brilliant Course
I completed the Business Fundamentals Complete Set Bundle and think everyone going into business - or wanting to "up their game" - should do this!
It has been very helpful. I have learnt SO MUCH from EVERY Module!
RAE MACDONALD
Founder
Learn Your Way.
Anywhere, Anytime -
With Real Tools You Can Use.
Access expert videos, interactive learning activities, and downloadable resources - from your phone, tablet or laptop.
Guided Activities to Clarify Your Thinking
Step-by-step exercises help you refine ideas, set goals, and take action. Optional AI prompts extend your thinking - ideal when you need inspiration or help finding the right words.
Interactive & Downloadable Learning Tools
From editable worksheets to ready-to-use spreadsheets, every module includes practical resources you can use straight away - online or offline, at your own pace.
Learn from NZ Founders and Experts
Hear directly from entrepreneurs and professionals who’ve done it before. Each module includes short, relatable video insights that ground your learning in real business experience.
★★★★★
Practical & Engaging
Business Fundamentals has given me a well-rounded education on starting a business.
With practical tools and actionable steps, it has helped me move forward - especially when I was feeling overwhelmed.
A great resource to keep you on track!
KARMAL JACKSON
Entrepreneur in Ideation Phase
Meet the Course Creators
Dr Fern Kelly-Zander
Innovation Specialist & Programme Manager
Fern brings international experience in innovation, strategy, and business development. She supports innovators in the Waikato with their growth plans and has led the creation of Business Fundamentals Online.
Abroad, she played a key role in growing an innovative UK startup to a SME, and as co-founder of artisan bakery, Rüdi’s Bakehouse here in NZ, she knows the challenges that exist to launch, scale, and sustain a business.
Fern is passionate about helping other founders turn their ideas into sustainable, impactful ventures.
Abroad, she played a key role in growing an innovative UK startup to a SME, and as co-founder of artisan bakery, Rüdi’s Bakehouse here in NZ, she knows the challenges that exist to launch, scale, and sustain a business.
Fern is passionate about helping other founders turn their ideas into sustainable, impactful ventures.
Kate Wightman
Business Growth Advisor / Startup Lead
Kate leads Startup Aotearoa and supports businesses in the Waikato through the Regional Business Partner (RBP) programme. With a background in startups, venture capital, and technology incubation, she has also co-founded her own business - so she understands the realities of entrepreneurship.
Beyond business, Kate’s drive shows up everywhere: she’s a former elite road cyclist and in 2023 walked the length of New Zealand, raising $55,000 for gynaecological cancer.
Beyond business, Kate’s drive shows up everywhere: she’s a former elite road cyclist and in 2023 walked the length of New Zealand, raising $55,000 for gynaecological cancer.
Backed by Soda Inc.
★★★★★
Highly Recommend
By the end of the Business Fundamentals programme you will have established some of the very important foundations for your business and be much clearer with your next steps.
JULIE MCGILL
Business Owner
Want to do something for yourself but don't know where to start?
You're not alone!
How can we help you?
What can you offer that I cannot get at other online schools?
Our workshops combine practical, hands-on exercises tailored for small business owners with real-world insights from experienced founders who’ve been through the journey themselves. You’ll benefit from personalised guidance, interactive activities, and a supportive community of peers, ensuring you can apply what you learn directly to your business. This mix of tailored, actionable content and direct access to entrepreneurial wisdom sets us apart.
Do I need previous business experience to participate?
No prior experience is necessary! The workshops are designed to support both new and aspiring business owners, providing practical guidance regardless of where you’re starting from.
How do I choose which modules to do?
You’ll get the most well-rounded experience by completing all six modules in the series, as they are designed to build on one another and provide a comprehensive foundation for your business journey. Plus, by purchasing the full bundle, you’ll only pay for four modules, making it a cost-effective way to gain all the insights and tools you need for success.
How long does each workshop take to complete? And when can I start?
The duration varies, but each module is designed to be flexible, allowing you to work through the content at your own pace.
You may enrol any day of the year. Be online and start your learning journey within a matter of seconds after enrolling.
You may enrol any day of the year. Be online and start your learning journey within a matter of seconds after enrolling.
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