Wellington is the birthplace of startups like Xero, Trade Me, Sharesies, Hnry, Volpara and hundreds more. Estimates suggest there are as many as 4,000 startups and innovation-led businesses across the region. But globally, we’re ranked 254th as a startup city, and slipping.
So what would it take to break into the top 100 startup cities in the world within five years?
Vision for Wellington invites you to an energising, solutions-focused conversation about how we can unlock Wellington’s startup and innovation potential—and grab the world’s attention in the process.
We’ve assembled one of the most impressive innovation panels ever seen in Aotearoa:
- Rod Drury – Xero founder
- Brooke Roberts – Sharesies co-founder and startup mentor
- Serge Van Dam – Angel investor of the year (2020) and active investor in early-stage ventures
- Professor Stephen Cummings – Innovation and strategy expert at Victoria University
- Moderator: Vic Crone – Former CEO of Callaghan Innovation and Xero NZ Country Manager
They’ll respond to provocations from Wellington’s startup community, offer bold ideas, and share hard-won insights on what it takes to build a world-class startup environment.
Come along, join the conversation—and share your own ideas over a drink afterwards.
Harbourside Function Venue is located above Macs Brewery on the waterfront. Arrive from 5:15pm for a 5:45 start.
