We always knew there was innovation in Franklin but wow, did our first-ever Innovation Franklin Shark Tank prove just how much talent and creativity is right here in our backyard.
After receiving a number of impressive entries, four outstanding finalists were selected to present their ideas, or already emerging businesses, to our panel of eight experienced "sharks". Each finalist was given 15 minutes to pitch, followed by 15 minutes of Q&A with the judges.
And they absolutely delivered.
With passion, clarity, and purpose, each finalist shared the problem they were solving, their proposed solution, and confidently responded to some tough—but thoughtful—questions from the panel. It was clear to everyone in the room: these individuals are not only creative thinkers but driven changemakers determined to make a difference.
And the Winner Is…
After careful deliberation, our winner was announced: Adam Dobbs, taking home the Shark Tank prize pack valued at over $10,000!
Adam is developing an app that addresses a challenge faced by many Kiwis every day. While we can’t reveal the full details just yet, we believe this concept has the potential to change lives—and we can’t wait to share more when the time is right. This is definitely a “watch this space” moment!
Adam’s prize pack included:
- $2,500 from Innovation Franklin
- Two expert-led seminars from Campbell Tyson on Financial Literacy and Time & Priority Mastery (valued at $1,195 + GST)
- Three months of 'Unlimited' hotdesking at Loom Shared Space (valued at $1,050 + GST)
- Up to four hours of legal advice from Franklin Law (approx. $1,500 + GST)
- A 12-month business mentoring package from Business Mentors NZ (approx. $295 + GST)
- Three leadership coaching sessions from In Your Corner (valued at $2,250)
- Four hours of web strategy and SEO coaching from PureSEO (valued at $1,200 + GST)
- Up to four hours of professional photography and videography from RAZOR Web Design (approx. $2,000)
A huge thank you to all our prize sponsors for their generous contributions and for believing in local innovation.
Celebrating All Our Finalists
While only one winner could be chosen, we are incredibly proud of all four finalists and the bold, brilliant ideas they brought forward:
- Jamie Lee – Lived Memories
Jamie Lee has launched a business that helps families preserve and share the memories of loved ones who have passed. Her brass plaque QR codes, designed for gravestones, urns and memorials, link to a password-protected online space filled with photos, videos and stories. It's a touching, tech-savvy way to honour those we’ve lost and keep their memories alive for generations.
You can check out the Lived Memories website to see their fantastic product. https://www.livedmemories.com
- Jackson Durham
Jackson’s idea targets a well-known issue in the real estate sector, and he's laying the groundwork for a tool that could reshape the way the industry operates. Practical, forward-thinking, and full of potential, we’re eager to see what’s next for this rising entrepreneur.
- Jennifer Stone – ReGlove
Jennifer Stone, a veterinarian based in Franklin, presented ReGlove—an innovative response to a significant sustainability challenge in the veterinary industry. Using recycled plastic, Jennifer has developed shoulder-length examination gloves, offering a practical and eco-conscious alternative to traditional options. The judges were deeply impressed by her insight, commitment to environmental change, and drive to innovate in such an essential field.
Looking Ahead
We were excited to find a treasure trove of creativity, passion, and possibility in our own community. To every finalist, supporter, sponsor, and shark who took part: thank you.
We’re thrilled to announce that Shark Tank will return in 2026, and if this year is anything to go by, the future is looking very bright for innovation in Franklin.
