Study Nook named Supreme Winner of The David Awards 2026
From no clients to eight schools in under two years: A Tauranga sole trader takes New Zealand's top small business honour.
AUCKLAND, 8 October 2026: Study Nook, a Tauranga business supporting dyslexic and neurodivergent learners, has been named Supreme Winner of The David Awards 2026, announced tonight at GridAKL in Auckland's Wynyard Quarter and livestreamed to finalists around the country.
Founder Dani Archer launched Study Nook in 2024 as a sole trader with no clients. It is now a profitable company supporting learners across eight schools. Its Learner Sponsorship Programme partners with local businesses so children whose families can't afford help still receive it, with results such as one child's spelling jumping from 18% to 87%.
The Supreme Winner is chosen by the judges from the six category winners, and goes to the business with a clear vision, strong results and a real impact on its people and its community. Study Nook also won Most Outstanding Social Impact earlier in the evening.
The judges said Study Nook "proves that 'different is not a disadvantage,' and it's a model every NZ town needs."
It was a record year for The David Awards, with entries up nearly 40 per cent on last year despite a tough economy, and the judges commented on the high standard of entries received.
Coordinating Judge Pam Martin said: “This year we received the highest number of entries in the history of The David Awards, and what really stood out was the innovation and resilience of New Zealand’s small business owners. Despite a challenging economic environment, we saw businesses finding creative ways to adapt and grow, particularly through the use of AI, social media and new ways of connecting with their customers.
“Small businesses are a major contributor to the New Zealand economy, so their health and success matter to all of us. As judges, it is incredibly encouraging to see these businesses continuing to innovate, adapt and punch well above their weight. It makes us very excited about the future of small business in New Zealand.”
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2026 WINNERS
SUPREME WINNER
- Study Nook - Dani Archer, Tauranga
Most Outstanding Fledgling Business
WINNER
- Neck's Best Thing - Aisha Addison, Rangiora
FINALISTS
Most Outstanding Established Business
WINNER
- Esolar - Lance and Alex Double, Tasman
FINALISTS
Most Innovative Business
WINNER
- Goover - Frank Witowski, Nelson
FINALISTS
Most Inspired Use of Marketing
WINNER
- & Breathe First Aid - Charlotte Young, Auckland
FINALISTS
Most Outstanding Social Impact
WINNER
- Study Nook - Dani Archer, Tauranga
FINALISTS
Solo Meo AWARD
WINNER
- Double Undies - Jane Bogust, Auckland
FINALISTS
THE PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARD
- The Teacher's Connections - Jenny Jefferson and Kelly Haysom, Auckland
Voyager Internet is the principal sponsor of The David Awards. Chief Revenue Officer Angela Hunter said: “Small businesses are the engine room of New Zealand’s economy, but too often the people behind them don’t get the recognition they deserve. What makes The David Awards so special is the incredible diversity of businesses and entrepreneurs it celebrates – people showing courage, ingenuity and determination to build something, create opportunities and make a difference. The calibre of this year’s finalists is extraordinary, and Voyager is incredibly proud to support a platform that shines a light on their contribution to New Zealand.”
NZBusiness editor David Nothling-Demmer said: "NZBusiness took over as Steward of TheDavid Awards this year, and we are excited to see the awards grow. We hope to continue championing New Zealand's small businesses through them for many years to come. "All the winners will be profiled in a special issue of NZBusiness to be published this month.
