Why StartUp+ was right for Madeleine
Backing bold ambition & global potential
Madeleine opted for StartUp+ to take Delightable from strong early momentum to a more scalable, sustainable growth phase, with the right guidance, support, and access to capital that early‑stage companies often struggle to secure.
StartUp+ equipped the team with what they needed to scale: smart funding, informed advice, and access to a network that opened doors.
Founder‑focused support
The Kiwibank team recognised Madeleine’s ambition, customer insight, and focus on solving a meaningful problem - making Delightable a strong fit for StartUp+. Kiwibank’s approach provided practical support designed specifically for start‑ups navigating early growth.
Madeleine is part of the Electrify Accelerator, a programme supporting bold women founders across Aotearoa
How StartUp+ is supporting Delightable
StartUp+ is helping Madeleine and Delightable to:
- Strengthen the business model and prepare for scale.
- Build momentum through supportive partnerships and strategic guidance.
- Access early funding to enable faster learning and capability development.
This support is helping Delightable strengthen its foundations and move confidently toward scale.
It’s been a really positive experience — the Kiwibank Business Team have been open to the nuances of start‑ups, curious to learn and genuinely supportive of our journey.Madeleine Patel, Founder, Delightable
What Delightable does
Delightable's goal is to transform how beauty brands connect with customers - setting a new global standard for intelligent, personal shopping experiences. Their unique tool helps people discover products based entirely on their personal preferences, and supports brands to stay ahead of the curve and lead the charge in agentic commerce - so they can continue serving their customers with clarity, confidence and strength.
What ambition means to Madeleine
For Madeleine, ambition means creating experiences that genuinely transform how brands can help consumers discover products. She's also driven by wanting to show that world-leading tech can be built right here, in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Madeleine's advice for startups
- Lean into curiosity and continuous learning.
- Surround yourselves with partners who accelerate insight and capability.
- Build with customers early to ensure what you create truly resonates.
Madeleine is a perfect example of the bold ambition and global potential we’re backing through StartUp+. Her energy, insight, and customer focus set a high bar for what Kiwi innovation can achieve.Joanna Greaves, General Manager Business Products & Performance – Kiwibank
Enquire about StartUp+
Submit an expression of interest
If you meet the eligibility criteria, email your business plan and funding proposal to startup@kiwibank.co.nz
Don't meet the eligibility criteria?
We may still be able to help. Email startup@kiwibank.co.nz