• Duration

    ~2 hours

  • LEARN ABOUT:

    • Identifying the problem you're solving
    • Explaining your solution to the problem
    • Identifying your target customer
    • Assessing product-market fit 

    • INCLUDES:

      • AI prompts to assist and accelerate learning

    Business Fundamentals

    02:  From Idea to Market - Problem Solving, Validation & Customer Fit

    Validate Your Business Idea and Define Your Ideal Customer

    Got a great idea but not sure if it will work? This module helps you explore your business concept by identifying the problem you're solving, shaping your solution, and finding the right customers.

    You'll learn how to validate your idea in the real world so you can move forward with confidence and build a business that people truly need.
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    ★★★★★
         Learn direct from founders!

    I really enjoyed learning from the journeys of other business owners and discovering what strategies have worked for them. It's a small investment with a big return - you'll be glad you did it!



    RAE MACDONALD
    Entrepreneur

    ★★★★★
    Define your ideal client with clarity

    This course provided incredible clarity in defining my ideal client and refining my offer. I had a general sense of who I wanted to help, but this module pushed me to go deeper - understanding their pain points, motivations, and why they would choose my solution over others.

    JULIE MCGILL
    Established Business Owner

    ★★★★★
    Confidence boost


    Great at getting you to target down to your ideal customer and help grow your confidence around solving their problems.

    KARMAL JACKSON
    Entrepreneur in Ideation Phase

    What's Included

    Dynamic learning: videos, interactive activities, frameworks & tools

    Dive into an engaging mix of written text, short videos, interactive activities, and expert guidance designed to support your journey every step of the way.
    Also includes AI prompts to assist and accelerate learning.

    Learn from those who've been there before 

    Gain insights from founders who’ve navigated the journey before you, sharing real-world lessons, successes, and challenges to inspire and guide you.

    In this module you'll hear from:
    • Wendy, founder of & Again (featured right)
    • Claire, co-founder of On Your Terms
    • Liz, co-founder of FOUND Store

    Discuss with others

    Connect with like-minded peers on our online discussion board. Share your thoughts, brainstorm ideas, and seek support as you build your business.
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    Co-created by

    Kate Wightman

    Business Growth Advisor & Startup Aotearoa Lead
    Kate Wightman is Soda's Startup Aotearoa lead and an experienced business growth advisor, supporting Waikato businesses through the Regional Business Partner programme. With a strong background in startups, venture capital, and technology incubation, Kate is also a co-founder of her own business so understands the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs. A former elite road cyclist, she also walked the length of New Zealand in 2023, raising $55,000 for gynaecological cancer.
    Kate is always happy to chat, so feel free to reach out with questions!
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    Co-created by

    Dr Fern Kelly-Zander

    Innovation Specialist & Programme Manager

    Dr Fern Kelly-Zander brings extensive international experience in innovation, strategy, and business development and has been instrumental in leading the creation of this online learning platform.

    As the co-founder of Rüdi’s Bakehouse, Fern understands firsthand the challenges faced by founders and small business owners - from launching and scaling a business to navigating funding, strategy, and operations. She is deeply committed to empowering entrepreneurs, helping them turn big ideas into impactful, sustainable businesses.

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