In Founder Focus we introduce entrepreneurs and change-makers working on innovative startups, social enterprises and SME’s around Aotearoa New Zealand.
At a glance
Founders: Scotty Diamond and Benji Pritchard
Business: Fit Rewards
Founded: 2023
HQ: Wellington
Can you tell us a bit about your business?
At Fit Rewards, we are building a smartphone application that incentivises and rewards individuals for participating in exercise and physical activities. Our platform allows users to earn Fit Tokens, our points-based system, for their workout efforts. These points can be redeemed for exciting rewards from our affiliate partners within the Fit Rewards Marketplace.
Whether it’s hitting the gym, going for a run, or attending a yoga class, Fit Rewards encourages users to get moving and get rewarded. Our platform caters to individuals seeking motivation to exercise, health clubs looking to enhance member engagement, corporates aiming to promote employee wellness, and government agencies focused on public health initiatives. By seamlessly integrating with users’ favourite health tracking apps and devices, we make it easy for everyone to participate in the rewards program.
At Fit Rewards, we believe that everyone deserves to be rewarded for prioritising their health, and that’s why we’re dedicated to helping people lead healthier, happier lives, one step at a time.
What’s the backstory for your business idea?
The idea for Fit Rewards stemmed from my own journey towards a healthier lifestyle. For two decades I (Scotty) had a successful career as a chef, working in places such as Buckingham Palace, to being a chef on tour with the Mercedes Formula 1 Team. After a near-death experience that led to six weeks in ICU and a year of rehabilitation, I discovered the powerful benefits exercise had not just on the body, but also on the mind. This began my journey towards a new life. I quit my job and took the leap of faith to become a startup founder.
Over the last year we have gained significant traction. From winning the Massey Grand Ideas Maori Entrepreneur Award, to successfully validating our concept through prototype development, to bringing on my startup coach (Benji) to be my technical co-founder.
Today, we stand on the verge of releasing our MVP to the market and we couldnβt be more excited!
What programmes, learning or mentoring, or resources have been of assistance so far?
I’ve been fortunate to receive invaluable guidance and support from various mentors and advisors throughout the journey. In particular, the team at Massey University who recommended applying for the Massey Grand Ideas Competition which Fit Rewards won both the Maori Entrepreneur Award and the People’s Choice Award in 2023. In addition, Fit Rewards was selected to participate in the Creative HQ Impact Accelerator due to the opportunity we have created to have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of Kiwis. My time within the accelerator provided me with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of building a startup, and provided me with invaluable perspectives on strategy, growth, and innovation.
In my spare time, I listen to podcasts ranging in subjects from business and leadership, to politics, to the themes of consciousness and the mysteries of the universe. Although it is impossible to recommend just one book or podcast, I do recommend early-stage founders to search for Clayton Christensen’s work on disruptive innovation, and Scott Galloway’s thoughts on marketing and leadership.