• Duration

    ~2-3 hours

  • LEARN ABOUT:

    • Gaining competitive intelligence
    • Finding your point of difference
    • Building your Unique Value Proposition (UVP)
    • Developing your competitive edge
    • Creating a compelling brand

    • INCLUDES:

      • AI prompts to assist and accelerate learning

    Business Fundamentals

    03: Crafting Your Brand & Competitive Edge

    Stand Out, Stay Relevant - Build a Brand That Sets You Apart

    What makes your business different? Why should someone choose to buy from you?

    This module helps you shape a brand that connects with your customers and positions you clearly in the market.

    You’ll explore your competition, define your unique value proposition (UVP), and craft a brand story that people actually remember. You’ll also learn how to protect what makes your business special - so you’re not just surviving but growing with confidence.

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    ★★★★★
    Transformative!

    This course module has been incredibly valuable in helping me gain clarity as a pre-existing business owner. It provided the structure and focus needed to refine my brand story, mission, and values. It’s been a transformative experience that has strengthened my vision and direction moving forward

    JULIE MCGILL
    Established Business Owner

    ★★★★★
    Very Helpful

    I loved the videos from founders, learning from those who've done it before. Also being able to download your thoughts and ideas as PDFs throughout the course is such a bonus!

    SUE LODER
    Entrepreneur

    ★★★★★
    Thought Provoking

    I thoroughly enjoyed this module! Having worked mostly in the corporate sectors, I have never had to think about IP until now. This was very informative. Whilst I have worked on my branding, these exercises help to re-iterate why our branding is what it is. Such a lot of thought provoking information. Thank you!

    RAE MACDONALD
    Entrepreneur

    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:
    • Helen, co-founder of ŌKU (featured right)
    • Wendy, founder of & Again
    • Kate, IP professional and founding partner at James & Wells

    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

    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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