Start or Grow Your Dream Business 

50% of businesses fail in the first 5 years. Don’t be one of them!

Get the skills you need to create or grow a successful business with our online Business Fundamentals courses.

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BUSINESS FUNDAMENTALS online

Created by Soda Inc.

Business Fundamentals Online was developed by Soda Inc., a not-for-profit business growth ecosystem based in the Waikato.

Since 2008, Soda has supported thousands of entrepreneurs, startups, and small-to-medium businesses across New Zealand with mentoring, workshops, and funding pathways.

Together, we’ve combined hands-on expertise with practical tools to create NZ’s most relatable and actionable business courses.

Find out more about the Soda team.

Business courses for busy Kiwis

Our online Business Fundamentals courses give entrepreneurs and small business owners the practical skills and confidence you need to build and grow a successful business.

Designed for busy founders, the courses cover essential topics such as business planning, marketing, finance, and operations - all delivered in a flexible, easy-to-follow online format.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to strengthen your business foundations, our online courses provide the tools, knowledge, and support to help you make smarter decisions and achieve long-term success.

★★★★★
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

Our Courses

★★★★★
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

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.

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Write your awesome label here.

Write your awesome label here.

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.

★★★★★
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

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.

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.
Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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