Whether you’re new to the startup scene or ready to take your next big step, this is your chance to network with the people and partners who can help you make it happen.

What’s on the Menu:

🌟 Inspiring chats with local startup ecosystem champions:

• Callaghan Innovation

• Regional Business Partners

• Business Mentors NZ

• Startup Queenstown Lakes

• Startup Aotearoa

• Mainland Angels Investors

• Flying Kiwi Angels + more!

🌟 A local founder story on leveraging these resources to grow a thriving business.

🌟 Networking with fellow founders, mentors, and like-minded individuals.

Set amongst the vines, this isn’t your typical networking event. It’s where big ideas meet incredible support, over a glass of Central Otago’s finest and a slice of pizza straight from the oven.

Secure your spot now: $10 p/p (+ booking fee).

Spots are limited, and you won’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind night in Wānaka.

Flying Kiwi Angels are active Angel Investors ready to help Kiwi Startups!

The Angelic Drop-In Sessions are a chance to connect with Angel Investors offering FREE ADVICE, CONNECTIONS & FUNDING.

Whether you're in the idea phase, have initial validation, or aiming to scale up, this is an opportunity to gain insights, build connections, and explore funding possibilities with experienced mentors by your side.

Book a chat with the Wanaka Angels; Charlie James & SQL Board Member; Wayne Hudson.

Book your spot online:

WHERE: Wanaka Recreation Centre - Meeting Room
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm, First Monday of every month.

REGISTER: Book your spot below.

Does your Startup need seed capital? Are you looking to scale up your business?

Angel investors are often the first step for startups looking for funding, especially when banks require security or don't fully recognise the potential of an idea. Beyond capital, Angels bring powerful connections, industry insights, and hands-on guidance to help founders push through the inevitable challenges of launching and growing a business.

In this 1-hour workshop, we’ll dive into:

• Understanding Angel Investment: What it is and how to get prepared

• Benefits and Challenges: Weighing up the pros and cons of Angel investment

• Growth Readiness: Is your team prepared for the demands and scale potential?

• Control and Accountability: Are you ready to share decision-making and answer to investors?

• Investment Timeline: Mapping out the steps in the journey to securing Angel investment
  

WHERE: Online Event (Zoom)
WHEN: Tue 26 Nov 5pm - 6pm
REGISTER: FREE registration

Join us for this free, info-packed webinar and find out if Angel investment is the right path for your startup!

Flying Kiwi Angels are active Angel Investors ready to help Kiwi Startups!

The Angelic Drop-In Sessions are a chance to connect with Angel Investors offering FREE ADVICE, CONNECTIONS & FUNDING.

Whether you're in the idea phase, have initial validation, or aiming to scale up, this is an opportunity to gain insights, build connections, and explore funding possibilities with experienced mentors by your side.

Book a chat with the Wanaka Angels; Charlie James & SQL Board Member; Wayne Hudson.

Book your spot online:

WHERE: Wanaka Recreation Centre - Meeting Room
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm, First Monday of every month.

REGISTER: Book your spot below.

Calling all investors, both seasoned and new! Mainland Angel Investors invite you to their upcoming Investment Evening, where they’ll showcase some new exciting investment opportunities from around the country.

This event is designed to cater to everyone, regardless of your level of investment experience. Whether you're a pro or just starting out, you'll gain valuable knowledge, meet inspiring startup teams, and have the chance to make a real impact in the startup ecosystem.

Becoming an angel investor not only offers rewarding and financially lucrative experiences but also allows you to diversify your investment portfolio, access a network of like-minded individuals, and support the next generation of entrepreneurs.

If you're passionate about innovation and entrepreneurship.. then click the RSVP button below to register and secure your spot.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to be a part of the exciting world of startups and make a difference!

Date: Thu 24 October 4.30 pm (5pm formalities start) - 7.00 pm

Locations:  Craig's Investment Partners - Five Mile Centre Level 3/36 Grant Road, Frankton

NZ Entrepreneur Magazine have created this focused session on PR essentials tailored for founders like you!

They'll dive into the critical role of public relations in building your brand and how to effectively engage with the media.

This 45-minute session will include 30 minutes of valuable content led by Richard Liew, Founder of NZ Entrepreneur Magazine and their head of PR, Brendan Boughen, followed by 15 minutes for a Q&A discussion.

Topics covered include:

• What exactly is PR, and why should startups care?

• How PR fits into your marketing plan

• Knowing when your business is ready for PR

• What media outlets are looking for in a story

• Essential tips for talking to media and preparing for interviews

• Common PR mistakes to avoid

Whether you’re new to PR or need a refresher, this is the perfect opportunity to get practical insights and build your media toolkit.

When: Weds 9th Oct, 5pm
Where: Zoom - Online

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Flying Kiwi Angels are active Angel Investors ready to help Kiwi Startups!

The Angelic Drop-In Sessions are a chance to connect with Angel Investors offering FREE ADVICE, CONNECTIONS & FUNDING.

Whether you're in the idea phase, have initial validation, or aiming to scale up, this is an opportunity to gain insights, build connections, and explore funding possibilities with experienced mentors by your side.

Book a chat with the Wanaka Angels; Charlie James & SQL Board Member; Wayne Hudson.

Book your spot online:

WHERE: Wanaka Recreation Centre - Meeting Room
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm, First Monday of every month.

REGISTER: Book your spot below.

Curious about what AI can do for your business idea or startup? 

Join Ben Walker, Director of Cairn, for this interactive workshop aimed at demystifying AI technology and showcasing practical integration methods for your business operations.

No prior AI experience needed. This is your chance to gain insights into identifying opportunities to introduce AI into your business processes and stay ahead of the curve. 

Content:

• Grasping the basics of AI

• Understanding AI types and applications

• Exploring benefits and risks

• Getting started with GenAI – prompt engineering

• Identifying AI opportunities in your business

Outcomes:

• Understanding the applications of AI and the problems it can address

• Gaining the ability to make informed decisions on AI use

• Acquiring knowledge of how AI can be a game-changer in your business

  
  Where: Online - Zoom. Link will be sent when you register online.

  When: Mon 30 Sept 5.30pm-6.30pm
  
  Don't miss this opportunity to gain a basic understanding of how AI can revolutionise your startup!
  
  Register now to secure your spot!

Do you want to raise capital for your business?

Callaghan Innovation are inviting you to attend a virtual introductory workshop on the capital-raising process which will help you to kick start your capital-raising journey on Thursday 26 September 2024 at 9.00am until 10.30am.

This foundation workshop will provide startups with a broad overview for early stage companies that are about to start - or considering - capital raising. This online workshop will equip you with the information you need to make informed decisions as you start the capital-raising process.

Register online now!

Calling all investors, both seasoned and new! Mainland Angel Investors invite you to their upcoming Investment Evening, where they’ll showcase some new exciting investment opportunities from around the country.

This event is designed to cater to everyone, regardless of your level of investment experience. Whether you're a pro or just starting out, you'll gain valuable knowledge, meet inspiring startup teams, and have the chance to make a real impact in the startup ecosystem.

Becoming an angel investor not only offers rewarding and financially lucrative experiences but also allows you to diversify your investment portfolio, access a network of like-minded individuals, and support the next generation of entrepreneurs.

If you're passionate about innovation and entrepreneurship.. then click the RSVP button below to register and secure your spot.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to be a part of the exciting world of startups and make a difference!

Date: Wed 18 Sept, 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Locations: Mountain Club Beach St, 85 Beach St, Queenstown

Join us at our next Startup Social featuring John Wikstrom, Co-founder of Magic Memories!

Come hear John’s inspiring journey of building an international tech company and learn valuable insights from his 20+ years of experience.

Whether you're starting out or already in business, his story of challenges, successes, and the power of collaboration is sure to resonate.

We’re also excited to announce our new partnership with Startup Aotearoa, supporting Kiwi entrepreneurs nationwide with resources and connections.

Save the date and secure your spot now!

Complimentary drink & nibbles included in your ticket.

Flying Kiwi Angels are active Angel Investors ready to help Kiwi Startups!

The Angelic Drop-In Sessions are a chance to connect with Angel Investors offering FREE ADVICE, CONNECTIONS & FUNDING.

Whether you're in the idea phase, have initial validation, or aiming to scale up, this is an opportunity to gain insights, build connections, and explore funding possibilities with experienced mentors by your side.

Book a chat with the Wanaka Angels; Charlie James & SQL Board Member; Wayne Hudson.

Book your spot online:

WHERE: Wanaka Recreation Centre - Meeting Room
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm, First Monday of every month.

REGISTER: Book your spot below.

Flying Kiwi Angels are active Angel Investors ready to help Kiwi Startups!

The Angelic Drop-In Sessions are a chance to connect with Angel Investors offering FREE ADVICE, CONNECTIONS & FUNDING.

Whether you're in the idea phase, have initial validation, or aiming to scale up, this is an opportunity to gain insights, build connections, and explore funding possibilities with experienced mentors by your side.

Book a chat with the Wanaka Angels; Charlie James & SQL Board Member; Wayne Hudson.

Book your spot online:

WHERE: Wanaka Recreation Centre - Meeting Room
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm, First Monday of every month.

REGISTER: Book your spot below.

Calling all investors, both seasoned and new! Mainland Angel Investors invite you to their upcoming Investment Evening, where they’ll showcase some new exciting investment opportunities from around the country.

This event is designed to cater to everyone, regardless of your level of investment experience. Whether you're a pro or just starting out, you'll gain valuable knowledge, meet inspiring startup teams, and have the chance to make a real impact in the startup ecosystem.

Becoming an angel investor not only offers rewarding and financially lucrative experiences but also allows you to diversify your investment portfolio, access a network of like-minded individuals, and support the next generation of entrepreneurs.

If you're passionate about innovation and entrepreneurship.. then click the RSVP button below to register and secure your spot.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to be a part of the exciting world of startups and make a difference!

Date: Wed 31st July, 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Locations: Mountain Club Beach St, 85 Beach St, Queenstown

Are you curious how Callaghan Innovation, New Zealand's leading innovation agency, can help your startup thrive with funding, R&D support, and industry connections?

Join us for an exclusive 1-hour Zoom workshop with Sophie Wiltshire from Callaghan Innovation, designed to provide valuable insights and practical guidance for startups and founders in New Zealand. This workshop will explore how Callaghan Innovation can assist you in turning your innovative ideas into reality and accelerate your business growth.

Workshop Agenda:

• Introduction to Callaghan Innovation and its services.

• How Callaghan can assist you in your startup journey.

• Steps to engage with Callaghan Innovation effectively.

• Inspiring success stories of startups.

• Followed by an interactive Q&A Session.

This workshop offers a unique opportunity to connect directly with an expert from Callaghan Innovation and gain a clear understanding of how Callaghan can help you achieve your business goals.

FREE REGISTRATION: Register now to secure your spot!

Flying Kiwi Angels are active Angel Investors ready to help Kiwi Startups!

The Angelic Drop-In Sessions are a chance to connect with Angel Investors offering FREE ADVICE, CONNECTIONS & FUNDING.

Whether you're in the idea phase, have initial validation, or aiming to scale up, this is an opportunity to gain insights, build connections, and explore funding possibilities with experienced mentors by your side.

Book a chat with the Wanaka Angels; Charlie James & SQL Board Member; Wayne Hudson.

Book your spot online:

WHERE: Wanaka Recreation Centre - Meeting Room
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm, First Monday of every month.

REGISTER: Book your spot below.

Electrify Aotearoa: Empowering Women Founders!

Are you seeking connections with fellow women founders? Look no further! Ministry of Awesome presents Electrify Aotearoa—an event that seamlessly blends networking opportunities with like-minded individuals, inspirational keynotes, thought-provoking panels, and informative masterclasses—all within a single day!

Don't miss this chance to expand your network, gain inspiration, and acquire valuable insights to fuel your entrepreneurial journey. Mark your calendars and join us for Electrify Aotearoa!

Flying Kiwi Angels are active Angel Investors ready to help Kiwi Startups!

The Angelic Drop-In Sessions are a chance to connect with Angel Investors offering FREE ADVICE, CONNECTIONS & FUNDING.

Whether you're in the idea phase, have initial validation, or aiming to scale up, this is an opportunity to gain insights, build connections, and explore funding possibilities with experienced mentors by your side.

Book a chat with the Wanaka Angels; Charlie James & SQL Board Member; Wayne Hudson.

Book your spot online:

WHERE: Wanaka Recreation Centre - Meeting Room
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm, First Monday of every month.

REGISTER: Book your spot below.

Are you ready to turn your new IDEA or PRODUCT into a tangible business? Look no further than SPARK UP.

We've created 2 in-person workshop's designed to help you bring your idea to life!

Whether you're a first-time entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, we understand that taking the first steps towards building a business can be daunting. That's why our experienced team will guide you through the process of transforming your idea into an early-stage business plan.

We will help you structure your idea, get charged and get pragmatic. This series is ideal for when you are stuck in your thoughts, need motivation to move forward and bring your business idea to life.

YOU WILL LEARN:

WORKSHOP 2 : Get Pragmatic

• Remove bias and get real customer feedback

• Understand your set up and running costs

• Add structure to your idea with project management principals

Date:

• Thursday 30th May, 11.30am - 2.30pm

• $49 for two sessions*

This event is brought to you by the team at Startup Queenstown Lakes. We are here to support you and bring your hot idea to life!

*Please note that the price for 1 session is still $49.00

Join this DWS and SQL event to learn about low-code and how it can support Startups to prototype and iterate faster and accelerate time to market.

DWS technical and business leaders will be talking about the advantages of low code development for entrepreneurs and what are the key areas to consider when doing app development with a low-code platform.

The discussion will include an introductions of the HCL Volt MX low code platform and examples of current use cases.

 Free registration below.

Are you ready to turn your new IDEA or PRODUCT into a tangible business? Look no further than SPARK UP.

We've created 2 in-person workshops designed to help you bring your idea to life!

Whether you're a first-time entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, we understand that taking the first steps towards building a business can be daunting. That's why our experienced team will guide you through the process of transforming your idea into an early-stage business plan.

We will help you structure your idea, get charged and get pragmatic. This series is ideal for when you are stuck in your thoughts, need motivation to move forward and bring your business idea to life.

YOU WILL LEARN:

WORKSHOP 1 : Get Structured

• Take your idea out of your thoughts and put it down on paper

• Start to complete a Lean Business Canvas with the help of our coaches

Date:

• Thursday 16th May, 10am-1pm

• $49 for two sessions*

This event is brought to you by the team at Startup Queenstown Lakes. We are here to support you and bring your hot idea to life!

*Please note that the price for 1 session is still $49.00

Our Startup Social is back, and this time, we're diving deeper into the world of technology and tourism. 

🌟Join us for an evening of discovery and connection as we explore the future of the industry 🌟

Our guest, Brad Rowe, Tourism Development Specialist, will share insights on smarter tourism futures and offer a sneak peek into HOST-TECH 2024: The Event Where Tourism, Hospitality, and Technology Collide.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or an aspiring entrepreneur in tourism, this event is for you! Connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and uncover the endless possibilities in tourism technology.

Startup Social isn't just about ideas; it's a chance to network with others who share your passion. Don't miss this opportunity to connect, collaborate, and create together. 

Save the date and secure your spot now!

Complimentary drink & nibbles included in your ticket.

Flying Kiwi Angels are active Angel Investors ready to help Kiwi Startups!

The Angelic Drop-In Sessions are a chance to connect with Angel Investors offering FREE ADVICE, CONNECTIONS & FUNDING.

Whether you're in the idea phase, have initial validation, or aiming to scale up, this is an opportunity to gain insights, build connections, and explore funding possibilities with experienced mentors by your side.

Book a chat with the Wanaka Angels; Charlie James & SQL Board Member; Wayne Hudson.

Book your spot online:

WHERE: Wanaka Recreation Centre - Meeting Room
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm, First Monday of every month.

REGISTER: Book your spot below.

Join us for this practical and interactive workshop tailored specifically for start up founders ready to grow, and entrepreneurs like you!

• Dive into essential tools and strategies to navigate the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.

• Discover the power of a growth-oriented mindset to overcome challenges.

• Learn about post-pandemic wellbeing, overcoming imposter syndrome, and fostering self-leadership.

• Develop strategies to manage mental load, set healthy boundaries, and build a support network.

Sarah McGuinness, CEO & Founder of Revolutionaries of Wellbeing (ROW), is a wellbeing disruptor and burnout awareness advocate.

• Date: Wednesday, May 1st

• Time: Workshop (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM), Networking (12:00 PM – 12:30 PM)

• Location: Rees Hotel Queenstown

Don't miss this chance to equip yourself with the mindset and tools to thrive! Plus, meet like-minded individuals and network over light refreshments after the workshop.

$45 p/p + BF.

Calling all investors, both seasoned and new! Mainland Angel Investors invite you to their upcoming Investment Evening, where they’ll showcase some new exciting investment opportunities from around the country.

This event is designed to cater to everyone, regardless of your level of investment experience. Whether you're a pro or just starting out, you'll gain valuable knowledge, meet inspiring startup teams, and have the chance to make a real impact in the startup ecosystem.

Becoming an angel investor not only offers rewarding and financially lucrative experiences but also allows you to diversify your investment portfolio, access a network of like-minded individuals, and support the next generation of entrepreneurs.

If you're passionate about innovation and entrepreneurship.. then click the RSVP button below to register and secure your spot.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to be a part of the exciting world of startups and make a difference!

Date: Wed 10th April, 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Locations: Mountain Club Beach St, 85 Beach St, Queenstown

Flying Kiwi Angels are active Angel Investors ready to help Kiwi Startups!

The Angelic Drop-In Sessions are a chance to connect with Angel Investors offering FREE ADVICE, CONNECTIONS & FUNDING.

Whether you're in the idea phase, have initial validation, or aiming to scale up, this is an opportunity to gain insights, build connections, and explore funding possibilities with experienced mentors by your side.

Book a chat with the Wanaka Angels; Charlie James & SQL Board Member; Wayne Hudson.

Book your spot online:

WHERE: Wanaka Recreation Centre - Meeting Room
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm, First Monday of every month.

REGISTER: Book your spot below.

Governance for Growth workshops presented by Angel Association New Zealand and Callaghan Innovation.

Explore the crucial role of governance for early-stage companies in fostering growth and attracting investors. Expert facilitators Debra Hall and Greg Sitters will cover essential topics including board formation, legal obligations, efficient meeting management, and documentation best practices.

This workshop is ideal for SME growth businesses, startups, and individuals considering or already involved in governance roles. Whether you're a founder, manager, director, or aspiring director, discover insights into running effective and growth-focused governance boards.

Event Details:

• Date: Monday, 8th April

• Time: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm Location: Venue to be confirmed

Registration Fees:

• Individual Ticket: $50.00+GST

• Group of Three: $100.00+GST

Enhance Your Understanding of SEO. In this workshop you will learn the three “key” foundational lessons from 12 year’s experience in SEO.

What will you learn:

• Gain insight on how to effectively prioritise your SEO efforts, and understand how much investment is needed for optimal results.

• Learn how to choose and rank for relevant and high-impact keywords that will drive value for your business and brand.

• Discover the common mistakes, time-wasters, and myths associated with SEO, and learn how to avoid them to achieve maximum success.

Join us for this FREE highly informative 1 hour webinar hosted by Dave Hockly, analytics and optimisation expert & Founder of Data Story. 

Dave Hockly is the founder of Data Story, an award-winning digital agency based in Queenstown. Dave has worked with some of NZ's leading brands using data to drive business goals. His work has increased client's revenue by millions. Dave has worked with some of NZ's biggest brands including The Co-operative Bank, Cardrona, Destination Queenstown, RealNZ, govt.nz, NZTE, Microsoft, Harcourts and many more.

Read more about Data Story here.

WHERE: Online Event
WHEN: Wednesday 27th March 5.30pm-6.30pm
REGISTER: FREE registration. Don’t miss out on your spot!

We all know Queenstown Lakes is a world class location when it comes to outdoor activities and adventures, but did you know that there is a growing movement creating an industry around product development?

These movements don't happen without conscious effort to create the next generation of an industry in the region. Startup Queenstown Lakes are partnering with Pivot Innovation to host this event that will dive into some of the cool projects happening in the region as well as a hold a discussion on what we want to collectively create in the years to come in this area.

Guest Speaker: Meet Eliot Drake, the visionary behind Wai Innovation in Wanaka, a pioneering business in the  light manufacturing sector. Specializing in waterjet cutting, product design, 3D printing, and 2D/3D CAD work, Eliot has a long past with product development including stints at esteemed organizations such as MIT and Google. His mission now is to leverage the toolset he's developed around manufacturing and product design to further STEAM education in the region. He is committed to transforming the region into not only a fun and beautiful place to live but also one where we can all earn a healthy living.

Don't miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and explore the vast potential product development in our region!

Get ready for a morning of empowerment and connection with your local wāhine! 

You're invited to join us for a vibrant coffee morning to connect with women from our region who are shaping the landscape of entrepreneurship, technology and business.

This event is all about fostering meaningful connections, offering support, and creating a safe space where relationships flourish and knowledge is shared. Meet other women including trans women, non-binary individuals, and all those underrepresented genders, to come together and connect, & inspire.

We're thrilled to have Sarah McGuinness, Founder/CEO of ROW Revolutions of Wellbeing, dedicated to helping passionate wellbeing leaders build better workplaces and drive real change, as she joins us for an insightful chat. Sarah's journey in blending technology and wellness has been nothing short of inspiring, and we're excited to learn from her experiences and wisdom.

Don't forget to bring along a friend. RSVP now and let's make magic happen ✨