KiwiSaaS relaunches as industry-led network to boost NZ SaaS
KiwiSaaS has relaunched as a community-led network to accelerate the growth of software-as-a-service (SaaS) businesses in New Zealand.
Now operating as part of the NZTech Group, KiwiSaaS has adopted a new, industry-led model, aiming to provide a sustainable, member-driven platform that supports and connects SaaS companies throughout the country.
The relaunch marks a transition for KiwiSaaS from its former government-funded structure to a fully industry-run entity. Its activities now focus on promoting the growth of the New Zealand SaaS sector through events, capability-building initiatives, and peer learning opportunities for founders and teams nationwide.
Industry engagement
KiwiSaaS is opening its membership to SaaS companies across New Zealand and launching its new platform with a programme called "7 Weeks of SaaSmas." This consists of a series of practical workshops intended to bring together founders, leaders, and teams from different regions.
Founding partners supporting the relaunch include Stripe, Movac, NZX, and Atlas Digital.
Economic contribution
The SaaS sector in New Zealand is one of the country's fastest-growing export industries. According to the organisation, the sector contributed NZD $2.2 billion to GDP in 2023 and currently employs 17,000 people nationwide. The 21 founding members of KiwiSaaS collectively employ over 7,000 individuals and generate more than NZD $6 billion in global revenue.
David Clearwater, Executive Director of KiwiSaaS, said the refreshed model aims to bolster one of New Zealand's key areas for scalable growth.
"Software is one of New Zealand's greatest export opportunities. We're building an industry based on creativity, capability and connection - not carbon or commodities," says David.
Developing domestic capability
One of KiwiSaaS's objectives is to support capability development along the entire SaaS lifecycle, from early-stage ventures to businesses scaling internationally. The organisation promotes the potential for high-value jobs across the country, emphasising that SaaS creates opportunities beyond traditional sectors.
"SaaS lets you build a global company from anywhere in Aotearoa," says David.
He also highlighted the achievements of notable New Zealand SaaS companies.
"From LawVu and Re-Leased to Gallagher and Kami, these companies prove world-class software can be built right here at home."
Bridget Snelling, Country Manager at Xero and a founding member of KiwiSaaS, stressed the importance of collaboration within the industry.
"Communities like KiwiSaaS help ensure we're not just building great products - we're developing talent, leadership and shared knowledge that keep New Zealand globally competitive," says Bridget.
Strength through community
Matt Hayter, Founder and President of Projectworks, commented on the value of a unified SaaS community for sharing expertise and fostering growth.
"When we started Projectworks, it was other Kiwi founders who shared the lessons that helped us scale faster. Community matters. The relaunch of KiwiSaaS gives every SaaS business - from early-stage to breakout success - a way to learn, connect and give back," says Matt.
David Clearwater pointed to New Zealand's smaller scale as an asset for the industry, enabling tighter collaboration.
"We might be small on the global stage, but that's our advantage. It's easier here to connect, collaborate and learn from one another - and that makes Aotearoa a great place to build a world-leading SaaS company," he says.
Transition and future direction
Since its initial establishment in 2021, KiwiSaaS has connected nearly 4,000 SaaS professionals throughout the country. The organisation was initially supported by government funding until June 2024, after which an industry-led Establishment Board guided its transition into the NZTech Group.
This new chapter sees KiwiSaaS focusing on industry collaboration and continued capability development to further establish the SaaS sector as a significant contributor to New Zealand's economy.