Are you a student working on a startup, business, side hustle, or project? We have $5000 for student startups at Startup Dunedin’s Student Pitch Competition!

If you’ve been working on a side hustle, running a startup, or tinkering away at something alongside study this year, our Student Pitch Competition this year will give you an opportunity to:

  • Get feedback from experienced entrepreneurs and investors

  • Access $5000 in funding to support your mahi

  • Share and celebrate the work you have been doing

  • Receive tailored support to take your next steps

  • Connect with Dunedin’s startup community

All kinds of businesses, all areas of study

Any kind of business is welcome to apply, no matter if you’re a startup, a side hustle, a not-for-profit, a social enterprise, or you’re working on commercialising research.

Dunedin tertiary students of all majors, minors, and areas of study are encouraged to apply from Otago Polytechnic and the University of Otago.

How to Apply

  1. Book a free meeting with us (click here).

  2. After your meeting, we will send you a link to submit your application.

  3. Submit a 5-minute video pitch.

Applications close Friday 19 September at 10.00 pm.


The Student Pitch Competition will take place on the evening of Tuesday 7 October. Book a meeting with us first to discuss!

Who can apply?  

You can apply for our Student Pitch Competition if:

  • You are a current student at Otago University or Otago Polytechnic, in any area of study.

  • You have spoken to potential customers or your target market, or made sales.

  • You have a rough plan for the next steps.

  • You are working on something you intend to continue, whether it is a business, not-for-profit, social enterprise, side hustle, or similar.

What we’re not looking for

This event is not intended for you if you:

  • Have only just had the idea and have not taken any action yet (but we can still help you with that - book a free meting with us!).

  • Are running a one-off event or pop-up with no plan to continue.

Applying is super easy!

Just book a free check-in with us below.

Frequently asked questions.

  • Do I need to have done Audacious to pitch at the Student Pitch Competition?

    • Nope - this year we’re doing things a little differently. Anyone who’s currently studying can put their pitch in the ring. 

  • I didn’t study entrepreneurship or business. Is that okay?

    • Yes, absolutely. Lots of previous winners were from other disciplines - from Health Science, to Fashion Design, to Māori, and everything in between.

  • Can I apply if I already graduated?

    • No, our Student Pitch Competition is for current students only. 

  • I just had an idea for a startup, but haven’t done anything about it yet. Can I pitch it at the event?

  • Can you help me refine my pitch so I have a better shot at the $5000?