Imagine a world where your wildest bike-related ideas could become reality. Well, that's exactly what Grit Works™ is bringing to the table! 🌟
Queenstown, New Zealand, is about to become a hotbed of innovation for rider-built bike products. Grit Works is launching a unique 11-week hardware accelerator program, exclusively focused on cycling products. But this isn't just any accelerator; it's a chance for riders, tinkerers, and small brands to transform their concepts into tangible, manufacturing-ready products.
Here's the deal: starting on April 27, 2026, participants will embark on a journey that includes rider-led validation, prototyping, design for manufacture, business strategy, and mentorship from industry experts. The program's mission? To create products that are ready for large-scale production and have a clear path to market.
Why Queenstown? This stunning location is already a magnet for world-class riders, guides, and engineers. Amos Breyfogle, the program lead, believes Queenstown is the perfect testing ground for outdoor products in the southern hemisphere. He says, "We want to empower these talented individuals with structure, mentorship, and skills to turn their ideas into reality."
And here's where it gets interesting: Grit Works is not just a local initiative. It's part of a larger network! Collaborating with the Australian Sports Technologies Network (ASTN), the program offers access to a trans-Tasman sports tech ecosystem. This means connections, mentors, and potential partnerships across Australia and New Zealand.
Dr. Martin Schlegel, ASTN Executive Chair, emphasizes the power of this collaboration, helping founders fast-track their journey from prototype to global markets. And it doesn't stop there! The program also draws insights from global MTB experts like Professor Tom Campbell and Martial Trigeaud, who advocate for rider-informed product development and thorough testing before market expansion.
Who is this for? Grit Works is seeking early-stage founders, existing outdoor businesses, and rider-inventors who are passionate about cycling products. Whether it's a bracket, rack, light, or any other physical bike component, if you have an idea and the drive to test and build, Grit Works wants to hear from you.
The catch? You'll need to be in Queenstown during the program, but the experience promises to be worth it. If you're ready to take the plunge, applications are open until March 31, 2026. Visit gritworks.co to register and take the first step towards making your bike-related dreams a reality. 🚀
Are you ready to be a part of this exciting journey? Will Queenstown become the Silicon Valley of rider-built bike products? Share your thoughts below!
