14th -16th June 2024

The Process

Learn how to think, work, and build like a startup in 54 thrilling hours. Techstars Startup Weekend is an exciting and immersive foray into the world of startups. Over an action-packed three days, you’ll meet the very best mentors, investors, co-founders and sponsors to show you how to get more done faster -- and, maybe even start that Business.

Startup Weekend is perfect for:

People who have a great idea;

Those who wonder what it would take to be an entrepreneur or;
People who just want to learn more about startups!
Participating is a great way to expand your network and learn new skills.

Learn what it takes to create a startup and experience entrepreneurship first-hand.

Starting on Friday night with pitch presentations and continuing with brainstorming sessions, business model development, and even the creation of a basic prototype, Techstars Startup Weekends close Sunday night with presentations and demonstrations.

Attendees create functional startups during the event and have the opportunity to collaborate with people with similar interests outside of their normal networks. All teams listen to talks from local leaders and receive various mentoring and constructive advice from local entrepreneurs. The weekend is focused on action, innovation, and education.

Whether you're looking for validation by an idea, a co-founder, specific skills, or a team to help you create a startup, Techstars Startup Weekend is the perfect environment for you to execute your idea and take the first steps to launch your own startup.

FAQ

Is this event for me?

The answer is most likely yes if you are interested in entrepreneurship and startups! Whether you are a serial entrepreneur or new to the startup scene, you’ll fit right in as long as you are motivated to build a product or startup and are open to new ideas. We believe that great ideas can come from anywhere.

Who can join Startup Weekend Marlborough?

Creatives - You are a creative thinker or designer who likes to solve complex problems

Inspirators - You are someone who takes charge, is interested in others and has the wildest ideas

Connectors - You are a natural networker who is business & sales-minded and knows how to promote a genius product or service

Builders - You are a developer or a maker who creates awesome websites, apps or products from the ground up

Why do I have to choose a role?

A startup needs different types of people and skills to make the company successful. You need thinkers and doers.

Everyone attending the event is expected to come without a team and then join and participate with a team. Each team can consist of a maximum of 8 people.

Why does a ticket cost 79NZD?

As you might imagine, organising an event costs money. Luckily, we have a lot of sponsors and support from Marlborough District Council which helps us keep the ticket costs down. For the ticket price of 79 NZD you get:

Dinner on Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday
Free drinks the whole weekend (Soft drinks, coffee, tea)
The best mentors in Marlborough
A weekend filled with fun, surprises and new friends

Do I have to participate in all three days?

Everyone who participates in the event is expected to be present all weekend. Your team is depending on you and your skills. Feel free to talk to us if you have any concerns about the event. You are of course free to leave the event if you don’t want to continue. But please discuss it with your team first and inform the organisers.

Can I pay at the door?

No, it is not possible to pay at the door. If you are not able to buy a ticket on Eventbrite, please contact us so that we can help you.

Do I have to pitch an idea to join Startup Weekend Marlborough?

It is not necessary to pitch an idea to join Startup Weekend Marlborough. But we highly encourage you to! You can pitch an idea you've been thinking about for years, or something you think of at the last minute during the event.

Please don’t pitch an idea that you’ve already been developing or have been working on outside of Startup Weekend. The point of the event is to learn how to go from ideation to product.

Pitching provides invaluable practice for public speaking. You won’t regret pitching but might regret not pitching.

What should I bring for an in-person event?

Laptop/Portable Computer
Power cord for Laptop
Notepad and pen
Business cards (or a business card app)
Your phone - feel free to take pictures or video of the event
Lots of energy!

I have dietary requirements, what should I do?

We will be providing a vegetarian option with all of our meals, if you have additional dietary requirements let us know. We are unable to cater for all requirements but please check with us and we will advise.

You can always send us an email if you have any questions: info@marlboroughstartup.co.nz