Join Hardware Meetup NZ on 16 July 2025 for a relaxed evening at Outset Ventures in Parnell, where we will showcase several companies leading the way in Innovation in internet of things.

This event will feature a fireside chat with founders and builders, who are building interesting products from Aotearoa. Hear more about their products, their journey so far and their dreams for the future.

A live-stream will be available - you can register to be sent the link prior to the event start-time.

Read more here.

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.
In this 1-hour workshop, the Startup Queenstown Lakes team will 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
  RSVP Here.

Otago University has been backing student founders for 20 whole years. Entrepreneurship has had many life forms, locations, logos and alumni, but at the core it's a unique celebration of the spirit at Otago.

To celebrate, we’ve invited back Cheeky Hard Iced Tea to celebrate their 5th birthday along with some other special guests! This event is open to anyone keen on learning more about the entrepreneurial journey of one of our region’s great success stories. If you have anyone who has been involved over the years, we'd love to include them!

Read more & RSVP here - spaces are limited!

Life in tech is fast-paced, ever-changing, and sometimes - let’s be honest - overwhelming. But it’s also full of opportunity, growth, and powerful moments of connection.

This year’s TechWomen Mid-Winter Webinar is a virtual fireside chat with members of the TechWomen Council, who will share stories of navigating the unpredictable world of IT — the highs and lows, the lessons learned, and the moments that shaped them.

Read more.

Looking for ways to connect into the digital identity ecosystem? Join these informal monthly drop in/coffee chats for the Digital Identity NZ community. Each session is designed to help you connect, share stories and spark discussion, and runs for 45 minutes to allow more time for discussion and ideas exchange. Read More.

This two-hour online workshop is ideal for those new to angel investing or curious about getting started. Facilitated by experienced investor Ken Erskine, the session explores the motivations, risks, and mechanics of early-stage investing. Topics include building a portfolio, legal responsibilities, the importance of engagement, and the role of exits. Expect practical insights, a welcoming learning environment, and the chance to connect with fellow investors across Aotearoa.

Read More.

With only 5 years left to achieve the 2030 SDGs and 84% of targets off-track, the AI Hackathon brings together diverse minds to create technological solutions for our most pressing global challenges. You'll learn new skills, create connections, make an impact and network with mentors in our safe space to play and promote AI for Good. Read More.

Ready to Pitch Your Startup? You’ve perfected your pitch and feel set to approach investors - but is your startup really ready?

Before any investment comes through, you’ll need to tick off every box in Investor Due Diligence (DD):

• Founders & Team: Showcasing your strengths and readiness

• Solid Business Plan: A roadmap investors can believe in

• MVP & Validation: Proven market need for your product

• Legal Foundations: IP, founder shares, contracts, and more

• Financial Projections: 3-year OPEX and revenue forecasts

Read More & RSVP.

Looking for ways to connect into the digital identity ecosystem? Join these informal monthly drop in/coffee chats for the Digital Identity NZ community. Each session is designed to help you connect, share stories and spark discussion, and runs for 45 minutes to allow more time for discussion and ideas exchange. Read More.

You’ve found the right Angel investor, and due diligence is done—now it’s time to tackle the paperwork

In this next session of our Angel & VC Investing series, Startup Queenstown Lakes will walk you through the essentials:

• Term Sheets: Key terms to know and negotiate

• Subscription Agreements: Understanding commitments from both sides

• Shareholder Agreements: Building a clear framework for ownership and rights

Read More & RSVP.