SQL Microgrants Terms & Conditions

By submitting an application for the Startup Queenstown Lakes (SQL) Microgrants Initiative, I, the undersigned applicant, agree to the following terms and conditions (Terms):

 1. Eligibility

  • I confirm that:

  • My startup is based in the Queenstown Lakes district.

  • I have been based in the district for a minimum of 6 months.

  • I can provide proof of address within the Queenstown Lakes district (upload proof of address)

2. Grant Usage

I agree to use, any and all microgrant funds received from SQL (microgrant), if awarded, solely for the purposes stated in my application, which may include:

  • Product development

  • Market research

  • Business model exploration

  • Purchase of critical equipment or platforms

  • Any other purpose expressly permitted by SQL

3. Reporting and Updates

If awarded a microgrant, I commit to:

  • Providing regular updates (with any supporting document as reasonably requested by SQL) to my assigned SQL Coach on the deployment of any microgrant funds and the progress of my startup.

  • Participating in PR marketing and storytelling efforts as requested by SQL on reasonable notice.

4. Sector Focus

I understand that priority may be given to startups in the following sectors (in no particular order):

  • Hospo-tech

  • Outdoor-tech

  • Film industry

  • Sustainability

  • Food & Beverage

5. Grant Amount

I acknowledge that:

  • Microgrants range from $500 to $3,000.

  • The awarded amount will depend on the specific needs outlined in my application.

6. Application Process

I understand that:

  • Applications will be open for 2 weeks.

  • Final Decisions will be made within 4 week post fund closure.

  • The selection decision will be made by a committee consisting of 5 eco-system members of the Queenstown Lakes District, ranging from entrepreneurs, business leaders, councillors to investors. All selection decisions are final.

7. No Repayment or Equity

I acknowledge that, subject to my compliance with these Terms, any microgrant made under these Terms does not require repayment and does not involve any equity exchange.

8. Compliance

I agree to comply with all applicable laws and regulations in the use of the microgrant funds.

9. Truthfulness

I certify that all information provided in my application is, and to be provided in any subsequent updates will be, true and accurate to the best of my knowledge at the time it is given.

10. Promotional Usage

I consent to Startup Queenstown Lakes (SQL) using:

  • Images of me for promotional purposes related to the SQL Microgrants Initiative.

  • My name and my business name in media releases and promotional materials related to the SQL Microgrants Initiative.

  • My business logo in promotional materials related to the SQL Microgrants Initiative, where possible and appropriate.

11. Confidentiality

I acknowledge and agree that, all information relating to the microgrant application process, including but not limited to the deliberation process, assessment criteria, award decisions, and the deployment of funds, is confidential. The applicant must not disclose or permit the disclosure of any such confidential information to any third party without the prior written consent of Startup Queenstown Lakes (SQL), except as required by law. This obligation of confidentiality is ongoing and survives the completion or termination of the microgrant process.

By completing the SQL Microgrants Form, I acknowledge that I have read, understood, and agree to abide by the terms and conditions outlined in this agreement.