2015: A dream is realised and 123 Vogel Street commences construction and refit.
2016: INNOV8HQ opens one of the world's first indigenous modelled co-working space from Dunedin city and was Aotearoa's, New Zealand's first whānau owned business marae
2017: INNOV8HQ 1st Birthday - 13,000 people used INNOV8HQ for co-working; events, training, residency and hot-desking. 33% of resident businesses doubled in size.
2018: More than 18,900 co-working spaces worldwide with 1.69M members. More than 20 co-working spaces across NZ with more than 300 members. 15,000 people have now used INNOV8HQ for co-working; events, training, residency and hot-desking. 10 resident businesses representing 9 sectors onboard. INNOV8HQ becomes the official community partner for the $20m Clutha Community Hub.
Hawaiian keynote tour of Kaua'i Island and partnership with Native Hawaiian community.
2019:
Guiding future leaders – Ben Sommerville, Tuakana Rangatira (Programme Lead Mentor & Facilitator) at INNOV8HQ, is dedicated to empowering rangatahi to embrace their potential and thrive.
As an Ambassador and Tuakana of the Konaki and Mana Rangatahi programmes, Ben embodies the values of manaakitanga and kotahitanga, fostering a supportive and culturally grounded environment for youth.
His mentorship focuses on building confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of identity.
Through his leadership, Ben champions kaupapa Māori values, inspiring rangatahi to realise their potential and contribute to a more connected and thriving Aotearoa.New Zealand.
