Whakatipu rawa ma ngā uri whakatipu: optimising the “Māori” in Māori economic development

One of the great challenges for indigenous and non-indigenous entrepreneurs in the twenty-first century is to move beyond profit maximisation as an acceptable modality for doing business and gravitate towards the concept of socially optimal outcomes, where maximising community well-being and minimising externalities to the natural environment and social justice are paramount. We present findings from a case-study analysis of M?ori enterprises that demonstrate a wealth of successfully kaupapa M?ori (M?ori ideology)-attuned strategy and policy. The case studies provide practical examples of the incorporation and expression of kaupapa M?ori values into strategy and policy of M?ori enterprises. We also identify the numerous challenges to implementing kaupapa M?ori in the management of M?ori Asset Holding Institutions and offer a way forward. Although the case studies are context specific, they provide some key principles and learning that can guide the greater uptake of kaupapa M?ori entrepreneurship.