Pictured above: Spacebar Design Founder Anson Kong installing the company’s sustainable cabinetry.
The winners of The David Awards 2025 have been announced via a special online presentation, celebrating the country’s most innovative, resilient, and community-focused small businesses.
The David Awards recognise Kiwi entrepreneurs who, like the biblical David, punch above their weight to create meaningful impact in their communities and industries. Now in its 17th year, the awards are open to businesses with up to 10 full-time employees, highlighting the creativity, courage, and tenacity of New Zealand’s small business sector.
“This year has been another tough one for Kiwi businesses. We were impressed by the high standard of entries and by the stamina and stickability of this nation’s small business owners,” says Judge Glenn Baker.
Taking home the Supreme Awards and Most Innovative Business was Spacebar Design. Founded in 2020 with a bold mission to end wasteful furniture and cabinetry practices, what started as a small group of designers and makers has grown into a movement to reshape how we think about interiors, moving away from disposable products and towards long-lasting, circular solutions that care for people and the planet.
The judges said that despite operating in an extremely competitive market sector, Spacebar Design has succeeded by offering an innovative product built on clever technology and respect for the environment.
“Spacebar Design identified an opportunity in a tough market sector. They have applied some clever thinking and commitment to produce a superior, sustainable product that resonates in the highly competitive office furniture marketplace. In a challenging environment they have increased their revenue substantially and demonstrated that innovation can provide a strong foundation for future growth,” says Convenor of Judges, Pam Martin.
Watch the winners presentation
2025 Category Winners
- Most Outstanding Fledgling Business: ISpy Nits
- Most Outstanding Established Business: The Cozy Corner
- Most Innovative Business: Spacebar Design
- Most Inspired Use of Marketing: Telescopicgoal
- Most Outstanding Social Impact: My Wonderland
- Solo Meo Award: Julia Grace
- People’s Choice Award: Dew Drops Postpartum
A Special Judges Award went to The Cozy Corner, who the judges felt narrowly missed out on the Supreme Award. The judges said The Cosy Corner was a very strong all-rounder, with exceptional results across broad metrics, in a difficult market, a highly challenged industry and a regional location.
Angela Hunter, Chief Revenue Officer at Voyager, the principal sponsor, says: “This year’s competition has been outstanding, with entrants and finalists showing innovation, dedication, resilience, and commitment to success. Each story is different, but the winners share the same drive and passion for making an impact in their community. We’re so proud to support The David Awards again this year and congratulations to all entrants, finalists, and winners.”
NZBusiness magazine is a proud supporter of The David Awards.
For more information about The David Awards 2025 winners, finalists, and categories, visit www.thedavidawards.co.nz.
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