Throughout the year, these student-led companies have progressed from initial concept development through to market validation, financial planning, branding, and product development, while also building strategic partnerships with industry mentors. Along the way, they have experienced the excitement (and challenges) of launching a business in today’s competitive economic environment.
Earlier this month, our YES teams travelled to Massey University to pitch their businesses to panels of industry judges as part of the national YES competition. Elizabeth Nicholson, Auckland Regional Coordinator for YES, highlighted the impressive scale of this year’s programme, with over 2000 students from across Auckland participating and operating more than 500 student-run businesses.
“One thing I notice each year is that Dio groups are exceptionally driven and ambitious. Their business ideas address real-world problems that are often close to their hearts. They work incredibly hard in all aspects of YES. Dio groups are always out at market days, and the Challenge submissions we receive are detailed and high quality. It’s such a pleasure having Diocesan School for Girls as part of the Young Enterprise programme.”
We are incredibly proud to share that several of our Dio businesses are already ranking among the country’s top-performing YES companies. Their success reflects not only outstanding entrepreneurial thinking but also a strong commitment to creating products that meet today’s consumer needs in sustainability, wellness and purposeful design.
BareOat
A granola everyone can enjoy.
BareOat has created a crunchy, cluster-style granola that is completely nut free, making it an inclusive option for those who often miss out on traditional granolas. Naturally sweetened with honey and free from refined sugars and unnecessary fillers, BareOat delivers clean, simple ingredients without compromising on flavour. At just 170 calories per 55g serving, it’s a lighter option that still packs the satisfying crunch people love.
Memento
Gift wrapping with purpose.
Memento creates beautiful reusable gift wraps made from 100% cotton with integrated ribbons, making gifting more sustainable, elegant and effortless. Designed with timeless fabrics and quality craftsmanship, each wrap can be reused again and again, helping reduce waste while ensuring every gift feels thoughtful and special.
The Movement Project
Moving for mental health.
What if your next Pilates class could cost less and change someone’s life?
The Movement Project has partnered with Reform Fitness Commercial Bay to make Pilates more accessible while supporting mental health. Customers who book through their platform receive 10% off their class while 10% of the booking fee is donated to the Sir John Kirwan Foundation — all at no extra cost.
Dippin’ Dates
Indulgence with impact.
Dippin’ Dates was founded on the belief that indulgence and wellbeing can go hand in hand. Their signature product features premium dates coated in high-quality chocolate, creating a naturally sweet treat made from simple, wholesome ingredients. Better still, 10% of every sale is donated to KidsCan, supporting children in need across New Zealand.
Over the coming months, you’ll see many of our YES businesses taking their products beyond the classroom by attending local markets, hosting pop-up stalls, and selling online through their websites and social media channels. We encourage our community to support these inspiring young entrepreneurs by visiting the Dio Online Marketplace.
We are immensely proud of every YES team. Their creativity, resilience and willingness to take risks have resulted in businesses that are not only commercially promising but also socially conscious. We look forward to watching these ventures continue to grow and seeing where their entrepreneurial journeys take them next.
