Auckland Startup Week kicks off 20–24 October, uniting over 2000 investors, experts, and founders for five days of workshops, panels, and pitch sessions across nine central Auckland venues.

Centred at GridAKL in Wynyard Quarter, the event showcases the people and ideas driving Auckland’s innovation economy, and it’s already proving popular, with many of the 32 sessions sold out.

Mayor Wayne Brown says the week is part of a wider push to build momentum in Auckland’s tech and innovation sectors.

“It’s events like these that link up investors with entrepreneurs and allow new ideas to flourish.”

The new Auckland Innovation and Technology Alliance will play a key role in turning those connections into real-world results, he says.

Pam Ford, Auckland Council’s General Manager of Economic Development, calls Startup Week a runway for local success.

“We’re excited about the interest already shown in Auckland Startup Week, working with our private-sector partners, and we look forward to it becoming a sought-after annual fixture.”

With 95 speakers lined up, topics range from early-stage funding and recruitment to women-led startups and Māori voices in tech.

Could Auckland’s Tech Future Start Here?

For Coasties running or dreaming up their own business, the event’s focus on growth and collaboration highlights the opportunities within reach.

Especially as more founders look beyond the city centre to the likes of the Hibiscus Coast for talent, ideas, and expansion.

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