Upcoming Events & Traction Workshops
Come hang with us.
SPARK UP WORKSHOP - Wanaka
Turn your idea into action.
Got a business idea that won’t leave you alone? Ready to finally do something about it?
SPARK UP is a focused 5-hour workshop designed to help you move from idea to action, with the support of experienced startup coaches and a community of like-minded thinkers.
Who Is This For?
This workshop is perfect for anyone who:
Has a business idea, need to pivot your business, or product concept you’re ready to explore.
Needs structure, support, or accountability to take the first steps.
What You’ll Get:
Structure, tools, and clarity – Get a clear framework for your idea, practical tools you can use straight away, and the motivation to take your next steps.
Support and connection – Be guided by expert coaches and connect with fellow early-stage founders on the same journey.
Whether you’re a first-time founder, student, career-changer, or simply stuck in your own head — SPARK UP is for you. Ages 16+ . . . because great ideas can come from anywhere.
All this for just $59 per person! Incredible value to kickstart your business idea.
SPARK UP WORKSHOP - Queenstown
Turn your idea into action.
Got a business idea that won’t leave you alone? Ready to finally do something about it?
SPARK UP is a focused 5-hour workshop designed to help you move from idea to action, with the support of experienced startup coaches and a community of like-minded thinkers.
Who Is This For?
This workshop is perfect for anyone who:
Has a business idea, need to pivot your business, or product concept you’re ready to explore.
Needs structure, support, or accountability to take the first steps.
What You’ll Get:
Structure, tools, and clarity – Get a clear framework for your idea, practical tools you can use straight away, and the motivation to take your next steps.
Support and connection – Be guided by expert coaches and connect with fellow early-stage founders on the same journey.
Whether you’re a first-time founder, student, career-changer, or simply stuck in your own head — SPARK UP is for you. Ages 16+ . . . because great ideas can come from anywhere.
All this for just $59 per person! Incredible value to kickstart your business idea.
SPARK UP WORKSHOP - Alexandra
Turn your idea into action.
Got a business idea that won’t leave you alone? Ready to finally do something about it?
SPARK UP is a focused 5-hour workshop designed to help you move from idea to action, with the support of experienced startup coaches and a community of like-minded thinkers.
Who Is This For?
This workshop is perfect for anyone who:
Has a business idea, side hustle, or product concept they’re ready to explore.
Needs structure, support, or accountability to take the first steps.
What You’ll Get:
Structure, tools, and clarity – Get a clear framework for your idea, practical tools you can use straight away, and the motivation to take your next steps.
Support and connection – Be guided by expert coaches and connect with fellow early-stage founders on the same journey.
Whether you’re a first-time founder, student, career-changer, or simply stuck in your own head — SPARK UP is for you. Ages 16+ . . . because great ideas can come from anywhere.
All this for just $59 per person! Incredible value to kickstart your business idea.
Angelic Drop In Session - December- Video Call
Flying Kiwi Angels are here to back Kiwi startups!
Join the Angelic Drop-In Sessions – your chance to meet real angel investors offering free advice, connections, and potential funding.
No matter if you’re just starting out, testing your idea, or ready to scale, this is a great way to get insights, grow your network, and explore funding opportunities.
Come and chat with Wanaka Angels Charlie James & Wayne Hudson.
WHERE: Online - Video Call
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm
REGISTER: Book your free 30min chat below.
Startup Social: Let's Sip, Share & Spark Ideas
SQL Startup Social x Wānaka Women in Tech: Sip, Share & Spark Ideas!
We’re teaming up with the Wānaka Women in Tech community for a special (almost!) end-of-year social, bringing together founders, innovators, and changemakers from across the region!
Meet Ali Meredith, our new GM at SQL, and connect with the Wānaka Women in Tech crew as we celebrate 2025 and look ahead to an exciting 2026.
📅 Thursday, 27 November | Wanaka
🎟️ Free Registration. Sign up yourself and a friend!
Hear from local founders, spark new connections, and soak up plenty of inspiration. Don’t miss out! 🙌
WHERE: Paddons Paddock, Wanaka
WHEN: 5.00pm - 7.00pm
REGISTER: Free registration + your first drink’s on us!
Startup Theatre 100th Podcast Episode: Celebration with Rod Drury (Live)
We’re buzzing to be part of the Startup Theatre Podcast 100th Episode Celebration with Rod Drury (Live) right here in Queenstown!
Startup Queenstown Lakes is proud to sponsor this milestone event. We’re especially excited to see a few of our incredible founders take the stage to share their stories, insights, and what they’ve been building.
Huge thanks to Troy Hammond and Adrienne Muir for bringing Startup Theatre south to celebrate this special moment with our community, and to all the other sponsors helping make it happen.
If you’re in town, come along and be part of the action!
Angelic Drop In Session - November- Video Call
Flying Kiwi Angels are here to back Kiwi startups!
Join the Angelic Drop-In Sessions – your chance to meet real angel investors offering free advice, connections, and potential funding.
No matter if you’re just starting out, testing your idea, or ready to scale, this is a great way to get insights, grow your network, and explore funding opportunities.
Come and chat with Wanaka Angels Charlie James & Wayne Hudson.
WHERE: Online - Video Call
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm
REGISTER: Book your free 30min chat below.
Angelic Drop In Session - November- In Person
Flying Kiwi Angels are here to back Kiwi startups!
Join the Angelic Drop-In Sessions – your chance to meet real angel investors offering free advice, connections, and potential funding.
No matter if you’re just starting out, testing your idea, or ready to scale, this is a great way to get insights, grow your network, and explore funding opportunities.
Come and chat with Wanaka Angels Charlie James & Wayne Hudson.
WHERE: Wanaka Recreation Centre - Meeting Room
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm
REGISTER: Book your free 30min chat below.
Queenstown Women in Tech: Community Connector
Startup Queenstown Lakes is excited to partner in this event celebrating women in tech and the power of connection.
Discover what’s happening in Queenstown’s tech scene, meet like-minded people, and find ways to get involved. You’ll rotate through hosted tables from local groups like Coders Connect, FLINT, QRC, Pivot Innovation, Queenstown Chamber of Commerce, and Startup Queenstown Lakes….then stick around for lunch and open networking.
All are welcome to come along to connect, collaborate, and be part of Queenstown’s growing tech community.
Thank you to the sponsors; Both Brains, Crayon, Microsoft, and Queenstown Lakes District Council, for keeping this event free for all.
Register now. Spots are filling fast!
Angelic Drop In Session - October- Video Call
Flying Kiwi Angels are here to back Kiwi startups!
Join the Angelic Drop-In Sessions – your chance to meet real angel investors offering free advice, connections, and potential funding.
No matter if you’re just starting out, testing your idea, or ready to scale, this is a great way to get insights, grow your network, and explore funding opportunities.
Come and chat with Wanaka Angels Charlie James & Wayne Hudson.
WHERE: Online - Video Call
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm
REGISTER: Book your free 30min chat below.
Mainland Angel Investors: Final 2025 Investment Evening
Join Mainland Angels on October 15 for their last investment evening of 2025!
Discover three exciting new startups as they pitch their investment opportunities, growth potential and financial projections .This is a fantastic opportunity to network with like-minded investors and entrepreneurs who are interested in supporting the next generation of successful startups.
Whether you’re a seasoned angel or just starting out, this is your chance to learn, network, and make an impact in Aotearoa’s startup scene.
Date: Weds 15 October, 5.00pm - 8.30pm
Doors will open at 5 pm and formalities will kick off at 5.30 pm. Make the most of the 30-minute networking time at the beginning of the event.
SPARK UP WORKSHOP - Alexandra
Turn your idea into action.
Got a business idea that won’t leave you alone? Ready to finally do something about it?
SPARK UP is a focused 5-hour workshop designed to help you move from idea to action, with the support of experienced startup coaches and a community of like-minded thinkers.
Who Is This For?
This workshop is perfect for anyone who:
Has a business idea, side hustle, or product concept they’re ready to explore.
Needs structure, support, or accountability to take the first steps.
What You’ll Get:
Structure, tools, and clarity – Get a clear framework for your idea, practical tools you can use straight away, and the motivation to take your next steps.
Support and connection – Be guided by expert coaches and connect with fellow early-stage founders on the same journey.
Whether you’re a first-time founder, student, career-changer, or simply stuck in your own head — SPARK UP is for you. Ages 16+ . . . because great ideas can come from anywhere.
All this for just $49 per person! Incredible value to kickstart your business idea.
Angelic Drop In Session - October- In Person
Flying Kiwi Angels are here to back Kiwi startups!
Join the Angelic Drop-In Sessions – your chance to meet real angel investors offering free advice, connections, and potential funding.
No matter if you’re just starting out, testing your idea, or ready to scale, this is a great way to get insights, grow your network, and explore funding opportunities.
Come and chat with Wanaka Angels Charlie James & Wayne Hudson.
WHERE: Wanaka Recreation Centre - Meeting Room
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm
REGISTER: Book your free 30min chat below.
How to Build a Startup That’s Ready to Sell
The smartest founders build with the end in mind. From day one, treat your business as an asset that can be sold - not just a job you’ve created for yourself.
Join Fiona Laryn; serial entrepreneur, exited founder, and now business broker, as she shares the key steps every founder should take to set themselves up for a successful exit.
She’ll cover:
✅ Financials: Why clean books and paying yourself matter
✅ Valuation Drivers: Profitability, owner’s earnings, systems, customer base, and growth potential
✅ Building Beyond Yourself : Strong teams, documented processes, and a brand that stands alone
✅ Industry Essentials: Contracts, compliance, and licences that buyers expect
✅ Future Opportunities: How to create a roadmap that excites potential buyers
✅ Staying Exit-Ready: Keeping your business legally and structurally sound
30 minutes of insights + 15 minutes of Q&A - bring your questions!
Perfect for startup founders at any stage who want to build a business ready to sell.
Angelic Drop In Session - September- Video Call
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: Online - Video Call
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm
REGISTER: Book your spot below.
ANGEL INVESTING FOR STARTUPS: Investment Documentation
Ready to Seal the Deal with Your Angel Investor?
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, we’ll 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
Join us for this FREE, highly informative 1-hour webinar, hosted by Peter Ramsey of Mainland Angels and Wayne Hudson from whIPit Limited. Get the insights you need to confidently navigate investor agreements and set up your startup for success.
WHERE: Online Event (Zoom)
WHEN: Wed 10 Sept, 5pm - 6pm
REGISTER: FREE registration. Don’t miss out on your spot!
This event is proudly hosted by Startup Queenstown Lakes, in collaboration with our friends at Startup Dunedin and COIN South – connecting and supporting founders across the South Island region.
Angelic Drop In Session - September- In Person
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.
WHERE: Wanaka Recreation Centre - Meeting Room
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm
REGISTER: Book your spot below.
SPARK UP WORKSHOP - Wanaka
Turn your idea into action.
Got a business idea that won’t leave you alone? Ready to finally do something about it?
SPARK UP is a focused 5-hour workshop designed to help you move from idea to action, with the support of experienced startup coaches and a community of like-minded thinkers.
Who Is This For?
This workshop is perfect for anyone who:
Has a business idea, side hustle, or product concept they’re ready to explore.
Needs structure, support, or accountability to take the first steps.
What You’ll Get:
Structure, tools, and clarity – Get a clear framework for your idea, practical tools you can use straight away, and the motivation to take your next steps.
Support and connection – Be guided by expert coaches and connect with fellow early-stage founders on the same journey.
Whether you’re a first-time founder, student, career-changer, or simply stuck in your own head — SPARK UP is for you. Ages 16+ . . . because great ideas can come from anywhere.
All this for just $49 per person! Incredible value to kickstart your business idea.
ANGEL INVESTING FOR STARTUPS: Be Due Diligence Ready
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
…and many other critical checks! Learn what investors look for and how to ensure your startup’s DD is airtight.
WHERE: Online Event (Zoom)
WHEN: Tue 19 Aug, 5pm-6pm
REGISTER: FREE registration.
This event is proudly hosted by Startup Queenstown Lakes, in collaboration with our friends at Startup Dunedin and COIN South – connecting and supporting founders across the South Island region.
Angelic Drop In Session - August- Video Call
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: Online - Video Call
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm
REGISTER: Book your spot below.
SPARK UP WORKSHOP - Queenstown
Turn your idea into action.
Got a business idea that won’t leave you alone? Ready to finally do something about it?
SPARK UP is a focused 5-hour workshop designed to help you move from idea to action, with the support of experienced startup coaches and a community of like-minded thinkers.
Who Is This For?
This workshop is perfect for anyone who:
Has a business idea, side hustle, or product concept they’re ready to explore.
Needs structure, support, or accountability to take the first steps.
What You’ll Get:
Structure, tools, and clarity – Get a clear framework for your idea, practical tools you can use straight away, and the motivation to take your next steps.
Support and connection – Be guided by expert coaches and connect with fellow early-stage founders on the same journey.
Whether you’re a first-time founder, student, career-changer, or simply stuck in your own head — SPARK UP is for you. Ages 16+ . . . because great ideas can come from anywhere.
All this for just $49 per person! Incredible value to kickstart your business idea.
Angelic Drop In Session - August- In Person
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.
WHERE: Wanaka Recreation Centre - Meeting Room
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm
REGISTER: Book your spot below.
ANGEL INVESTING FOR STARTUPS: Is Angel Investing Right for You?
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
Join us for this free, info-packed webinar and find out if Angel investment is the right path for your startup!
WHERE: Online Event (Zoom)
WHEN: Tue 22 July, 5pm - 6pm
REGISTER: FREE registration
This event is proudly hosted by Startup Queenstown Lakes, in collaboration with our friends at Startup Dunedin and COIN South – connecting and supporting founders across the South Island region.
Angelic Drop In Session - July- Video Call
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: Online - Video Call
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm
REGISTER: Book your spot below.
Angelic Drop In Session - July- In Person
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
REGISTER: Book your spot below.
Angelic Drop In Session - June- Video Call
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: Online - Video Call
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm
REGISTER: Book your spot below.
Angelic Drop In Session - June- In Person
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
REGISTER: Book your spot below.
AI Agents for Startups: “How to Use AI Agents to Punch Above Your Weight”
You might be a solo founder or a lean crew? But what if your startup looked and performed like a team of ten?
Join us for a high-value conversation with Anthony Grant, founder of Fittir, the AI-powered platform helping runners find the perfect shoes. Anthony’s tested (and broken) over 30 AI Agents and now uses 6–8 daily to save time, boost customer experience, and scale smarter.
In this interactive session, Anthony will share how startups can:
Reduce your workload (and reclaim your evenings)
How AI can make your team feel bigger than it is
Which AI myths to leave behind
Real-world agent setups Anthony actually uses
What to expect:
Conversation style evening with Q&A
Crowd-sourced solutions to your startup pain points
Networking over a drink and nibbles to close out the evening
Bring your AI questions. Free to attend. Built for startups
Spark Up - Alexandra
Are you ready to turn your new IDEA or PRODUCT into a tangible business? Look no further than SPARK UP.
We've created a 5hr 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 workshop is ideal for when you are stuck in your thoughts, need motivation to move forward and bring your business idea to life.
Supported by Central Otago District Council. Sign up now and start turning your dreams into reality!
Mainland Angel Investors - May Pitch Investment Evening
Calling all investors, both seasoned and new! Mainland Angel Investors invite you to their April investment evening for 2025, 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: Tues 21 May, 4.30pm - 7.00pm
Wanaka Location: Craigs Investment Partners
Angelic Drop In Session - May- Video Call
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: Online - Video Call
WHEN: 4pm - 6pm
REGISTER: Book your spot below.
Startup Women That Are Kicking A$S - SQL Social Event
Join us for an inspiring evening celebrating the incredible women in startups who are making waves, breaking barriers, and kicking a$$ in the entrepreneurial world!
This event is open to all—regardless of gender. This is a chance to connect, uplift one another, and spark fresh ideas.
Featuring our Women Founders:
💥 Fiona Laryn – Founder, Laryn Allied Health
An osteopath with a master’s degree, Fiona founded Laryn Allied Health in 2017. With clinics in Frankton and Wānaka, she’s leading the way in integrative health.
💥 Tanya Simmonds – The "Hempress," Founder of HempCentral
Tanya is revolutionising the hemp industry with her processing facility in Queensberry. HempCentral is pioneering sustainable hemp production, including hempcrete for eco-friendly buildings.
💥Charity Tycer – Cofounder, AWOL New Zealand Ltd
Charity is shaking up the automotive world with NZ’s first purpose-built adventure vehicle, AWOL. A true Jill-of-All-Trades, she
will be bringing the "Beastie"— NZ’s first off-roading van, so you can see innovation in action!
Come along to network, be inspired, and celebrate the women driving innovation in Aotearoa. RSVP now – you won’t want to miss this!
When: Wednesday, 30th April | 5:00 – 7:00 PM
Where: Paradiso Cinema, Wānaka
Who: Everyone is welcome!
This FREE event offers great networking opportunities and includes nibbles.
Financials for Startups
Struggling to understand cash flow, costs, and capital for your startup? Get clarity in just one hour.
Understanding your startup’s financials is crucial for growth, securing investment, and avoiding costly mistakes. Join u and special guest Paul Keegan, Business Manager at Westpac, as he breaks down the essentials every founder needs to know.
We'll be covering:
OPEX & CAPEX – What is operating and capital expenses, and why you need to understand the difference.
Sales Forecasting – How to forecast your revenue and plan for profitability
Launch Capital – What banks and investors look for and how to get prepared for this important step
50 minutes of insights + 10 minutes of Q&A – bring your finance questions!
Secure your spot and take control of your startup’s finances!