A chance to win $25,000 is being offered to budding entrepreneurs through funding from a new programme to promote innovation in the Wellington Region.

In an attempt to link new entrepreneurs to a support network, which would help develop ideas into businesses, last night the inaugural Bright Ideas Challenge was launched by Grow Wellington.

From the whole Wellington region idea outlines have been invited and this includes everyone with a small idea to the owner of an established company.

A feedback would be given to all those who submit from a panel of experts and a seed funding of up to $25,000 as well as mentoring, access to investors and businesses with international market connections will be given to the best ideas. There is more in store that funding can be awarded to more than one company.

The aspects on which ideas will be evaluated are commercial potential of an idea, originality, and the ability to be supported and developed in the Wellington region. Some companies like Dulux and Trade Me have already pledged support to the network.

According to chief executive of Grow Wellington Nigel Kirkpatrick, the region was already a bright spot of innovation.