Waikato Entrepreneurial Meetup - Oct 2026

Join us for the first Waikato Entrepreneurial Meetup - a free event bringing together entrepreneurs, founders, business owners and ecosystem partners from across the Waikato.

What is Waikato Entrepreneurial Meetup?

This is a new initiative brought to you by HIKO Hub, Soda Inc., and Altered Capital.

Waikato Entrepreneurial Meetup is a series of free events, designed to strengthen Waikato’s entrepreneurial community by providing an accessible space where people at different stages of business can meet, share experiences, learn from others and discover new opportunities and support.

Expect practical tips and techniques, opportunities to network with like-minded people, and drinks and nibbles in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. 

💡 Who’s it for?

The Waikato Entrepreneurial Meetup is for anyone starting, building or thinking about starting a business in the Waikato.

That includes entrepreneurs and startup founders, small business owners, people with a business idea, students and emerging entrepreneurs, and established business owners looking to connect with Waikato’s wider entrepreneurial community.

If you’re interested in business, innovation, entrepreneurship or simply meeting like-minded people, we'd love to see you there.

💥 What’s on offer?

• Inspiring guest speakers sharing real-world experiences and insights.

• Relaxed networking to meet and connect with like-minded people from across the Waikato.

• Connection to the wider ecosystem, helping attendees build relationships within Waikato’s business and startup community.

• A place to share and learn, exchange ideas, hear from others and gain inspiration.

• The opportunity to pitch your idea to key players in Waikato’s startup and innovation ecosystem

📢 We have two spaces available for people who want to pitch their idea. If you are interested - please complete this form and we will be in touch.

Waikato Entrepreneurial Meetup #1

Date: 15 October 2026

Time: 5 -7pm

Location: HIKO Hub, Gate 5/163 Hillcrest Road, Hillcrest, Hamilton

Waikato Entrepreneurial Meetup is supported by HIKO Hub, Soda Inc, Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment and Altered Capital.