NZ Startup Bootcamp applications open

What do you get when you throw together 20 business savvy teams, 48 intense hours, $20,000 in cash prizes, four world class judges, 25 high-profile mentors and three entrepreneurial guest speakers?

That’s right, Soda Inc. is once again gearing up for their biggest event of the year, the NZ Startup Bootcamp brought to you by Wintec.

And they’re excited to have already locked in some exceptional judges, mentors and sponsors.

The action-packed weekend will provide a platform for participants to test their entrepreneurial skills, validate an idea or get feedback and exposure on a startup they’re building from talented mentors and business legends.

Applications for a team spot will open on January 20 at 5pm.

The bootcamp will be held at the Wintec Atrium in Central Hamilton over March 27 – 29.

Wintec Chief Executive, David Christiansen, encourages people with an innovative idea or startup to register their interest.

“Wintec believes in backing opportunities for people from all walks of life to bring their business ideas alive, test their skills, learn from the best and kick start their business careers. We’ve been supporters and sponsors of the NZ Startup Bootcamp since its inception.”

Along with Wintec, other key partners, ASB and Gallagher, have jumped on board to sponsor the two categories; Best Startup and Best New Idea, both with cash prizes of $10,000 for the winning teams.

ASB’s John Wilkinson is a big supporter of the Bootcamp.

“The spirit of the event aligns perfectly with the ASB values; Passion and Courage. The bootcamp provides a great platform where passionate and courageous people are able to excel in a fast-paced entrepreneurial weekend,” he said.

Participants will have to chance to hear from inspirational speakers such as founder of Let’s Play Live, Duane Mutu, and Hamilton local, Kylie Rae, from Nature and Nosh Tours NZ.

The amazing Elly Strang, editor of Idealog, is once again getting involved. Coming back as an influencer after being on the judging panel for 2019, she is excited to be a part of the event once again.

“My experience of the NZ Startup Bootcamp last year was an overwhelmingly positive one. The energy and enthusiasm of the contestants was unmatched and there were some incredibly thoughtful ideas being pitched, as well as a stellar line-up of judges with really diverse business expertise. This made the decision all too easy to come back this year in an influencer role and I can’t wait to see what 2020s cohort brings,” she said.

As soon as the 48 hours kicks off the 20 teams will then participate in workshops, build business models, get feedback from mentors and validate their ideas.

At the end of the weekend the teams will pitch their new ideas or existing startups to a panel of world-class judges and an audience of 300 people.

These judges currently include Blackbird Ventures founder Samantha Wong and Founder of Idealog, Martin Bell. The opening and closing ceremonies are packed to capacity with contestants, investors, sponsors, mentors, judges and national business leaders.

David Christiansen says “This is Soda Inc.’s signature event, and each year it grows in popularity, with more and more interest from leading business mentors to support upcoming entrepreneurs.

“This vibrant and inspiring event cements the value of Soda Inc., both regionally and nationally, and as a Wintec company, we’re proud to support its ongoing success, and see more careers in business flourish as a result.”

WHEN and WHERE:

27 – 29 March 2019, The Atrium, Wintec House, Hamilton

CATEGORIES:

Gallagher Best Idea = $10,000 cash prize. ASB Best Startup = $10,000 cash prize

APPLY HERE: https://www.nzstartupbootcamp.co.nz/apply

Read more:
Soda Inc. showcase fuels entrpreneurial fire
Soda Inc. hits 10 years and turns up the volume for Kiwi entrepreneurs
Peoples' Choice winners steal the show at NZ Startup Bootcamp 2019