Powerhouse Ventures

Powerhouse Ventures Limited is a venture capital firm based in Christchurch, New Zealand, with additional offices in Wellington, Dunedin, and Auckland. Established in 2006, the firm specializes in incubation, start-up, early-stage, and growth capital investments, primarily targeting companies within Canterbury. It focuses on sectors such as engineering and clean technology, biotechnology and agri-science, health and medical devices, food, and information technology. Powerhouse Ventures aims to invest in companies that typically do not seek more than NZD 5 million in funding and have total capital and reserves, along with shareholder loans, not exceeding NZD 10 million. The firm is known for its selective approach, rigorously screening opportunities to identify those with strong intellectual property and significant potential in global markets. Additionally, Powerhouse Ventures engages in intellectual property commercialization and operates an innovation education program for students and organizations.

Ben Hodge

Investment Officer

James Kruger

Executive Chairman

Past deals in New Zealand

CertusBio

Funding Round in 2021
CertusBio Limited is a company based in Christchurch, New Zealand, that specializes in developing biosensor monitoring technologies for various industries. Founded in 2015, CertusBio's innovative solutions are designed for continuous on-site industrial monitoring, targeting sectors such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and wastewater treatment. The company's biosensor technologies provide real-time data access, enabling industries to make informed, data-driven decisions that enhance efficiency, improve yields, and reduce waste. Particularly, their technology benefits dairy processors by allowing them to monitor critical analytes like lactose, proteins, and bacteria, facilitating better management of product quality and minimizing treatment costs in wastewater processes.

Invert Robotics

Venture Round in 2018
Invert Robotics Limited specializes in providing remote robotic inspection services primarily for the food and beverage industry, as well as the pharmaceutical and oil and gas sectors. Founded in 2010 and based in Christchurch, New Zealand, the company has developed a modular, multi-technology inspection platform capable of performing non-destructive testing on various industrial equipment. Its robotic solutions are designed for visual inspections of storage tanks, spray dryers, and other vessels, allowing for the detection of cracks and defects. The proprietary robots can navigate smoothly on all surfaces, including non-magnetic materials, ensuring safe and accurate asset management. Invert Robotics aims to enhance maintenance efficiency and safety for its clients through innovative inspection technologies.

MARS Bioimaging

Series A in 2014
MARS Bioimaging Ltd. specializes in the design, manufacture, and marketing of advanced imaging systems for medical diagnosis. Established in 2007 and based in Christchurch, New Zealand, the company is recognized for its pioneering MARS imaging system, which utilizes cutting-edge Medipix technology developed in collaboration with the University of Canterbury and licensed from CERN. This system offers high-definition spectral computed tomography, enabling detailed imaging applications, including cancer detection and the development of new contrast agents. MARS Bioimaging also provides a MARS Micro-CT scanner that features an x-ray source and a sophisticated camera system, along with proprietary software that facilitates the visualization of image datasets in both 2D and 3D formats. This innovation positions MARS Bioimaging as a leader in spectral imaging technology, crucial for pre-clinical medical research and other diagnostic applications.

Cirrus Materials Science

Founded in 2013, Cirrus Materials Science specializes in developing nano-technology based coating solutions for metals. Its products include Cirrus Hybrid for protecting light metal substrates and 3D printed components, and Cirrus Dopant, a liquid additive enhancing plating baths. Services comprise electroplating and design services to improve coated material lifespan, reducing maintenance costs.

Objective Acuity

Objective Acuity Limited is a company based in Auckland, New Zealand, specializing in the development of advanced vision testing systems aimed at accurately detecting visual function. The company offers a suite of software-based vision screening tools designed to be accessible and effective for individuals of all ages and literacy levels. Its vision tests utilize an eye-tracking system that captures eye movement data, which is analyzed through proprietary algorithms. This innovative approach allows for the accurate measurement of visual acuity, facilitating early detection of vision problems such as amblyopia and strabismus. Objective Acuity's tests are employed in various applications, including routine screenings for children and adults, follow-up assessments after national screening programs, and objective evaluations of treatment progress by healthcare professionals.

Cirrus Materials Science

Founded in 2013, Cirrus Materials Science specializes in developing nano-technology based coating solutions for metals. Its products include Cirrus Hybrid for protecting light metal substrates and 3D printed components, and Cirrus Dopant, a liquid additive enhancing plating baths. Services comprise electroplating and design services to improve coated material lifespan, reducing maintenance costs.
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