Meetup #4 - Fuel for Growth: Funding Options for Tech Founders
Date: 24 June, 2025
Location: Storyteller Eatery and Bar, Te Awamutu

Raising capital doesn’t look the same for every business – so what are your options?

In this fourth Waipā Tech Meetup, we’re bringing together a diverse panel of funding experts to help you explore different ways to finance your tech venture. You’ll hear from:

Emma Ballantyne from BNZ – sharing insights into bank funding and what lenders look for
Stuart Inglis from Altered Capital – providing a venture capital perspective on scaling high-growth tech
Emily Heazlewood from Snowball Effect – talking all things equity crowdfunding and raising from your community

The format for the night is:
🎤 Three speakers with short and sweet 8-minute talks
🧠 A hosted Q+A panel discussion
🤝 And, as always, plenty of time for drinks, chats, and connecting with fellow founders, builders, and innovators.

If you're in the early stages of building a tech business or starting to think about scale, this session is designed to give you clarity, direction, and practical next steps.

Come along, ask questions, and get inspired!

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What is Waipā Tech Meetups?

This is a brand-new initiative brought to you by Rocketspark, Soda Inc., and the Waipā District Council.

Waipā Tech Meetups is a series of events, designed to bring Waipā-based tech businesses together for insights from local tech experts (or "tech-sperts"). Expect practical tips and techniques, opportunities to network with like-minded businesses, and drinks and nibbles in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.

📍 Who’s it for?
Tech businesses and budding entrepreneurs in the Waipā region.

📅 What’s on offer?

Key note speakers to talk through the latest tech-related skills and trends
Networking opportunities with local businesses
A relaxed environment with refreshments