What happens @ SWWLG
Got an idea you’ve been sitting on? Or just curious about startups and want to be in the room where things get built?
Startup Weekend Wellington is your space to test, build, and create — alongside other curious, driven people.
Pitch your own idea, or join a team and bring your skills, creativity, and perspective to shape something new.
Over 54 fast-paced hours, you’ll learn by doing — using lean, sprint-style experimentation to turn an idea into something real. And make powerful connections that last.
It’s intense.
It’s energising.
And you’re guided by a proven process every step of the way. If you’re even slightly curious — this is your place to start. 🚀
Friday — Pitch & Team Formation
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We're bringing the WOW — a Friday night energy burst to unlock your potential.
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Kick off with your 60-second pitches. No need for a polished plan, just your vision and passion.
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Vote on the best ideas and form teams around the top concepts.
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Start brainstorming, planning, and setting goals for the weekend.
Saturday — Build, Test & Learn
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Using lean, social methods, dive into building your MVP with your team
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Gain hands-on support from mentors and experts in microlearning sessions.
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Test assumptions and iterate fast — learn, pivot, and refine your idea.
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Start to build your pitch
Sunday — Final Prep & Pitch
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Polish your prototype and presentation.
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Practice your pitch with feedback from mentors.
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Pitch your startup to a panel of industry leaders, investors, and visionaries eager to see what you’ve built.
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Celebrate wins, connect with the community, and plan your next steps.
YOU'LL WALK AWAY WITH...
A real startup experience: you’ve tested ideas, built something tangible, and learned what it takes to move fast.
New skills and tools: lean methods, smart startup tech, and a hands-on crash course in turning ideas into action.
A network for life: mentors, founders, and new friends who’ve got your back as you keep building.
Confidence and clarity to take your next steps as a founder or intrapreneur, innovator, or leader.
A sense of belonging in Wellington’s startup ecosystem: knowing there’s a place for you and a pathway forward.
And maybe… your future co-founders.
JUST BRING THE SPARK⚡️
This weekend is for raw ideas: no prototypes or full business plans - just you, your mates, your vision, and the willingness to connect, experiment, and build.
FAQ
See here for some frequently asked questions.
If you have any others, get in touch at startupweekendwellington@gmail.com or message us on socials — odds are someone else is wondering the same thing!