Startup Mackay Inc. raises over $15k in funding for 2nd Mackay Startup Weekend

The team at Startup Mackay have successfully secured just over $15k in grants and sponsorship to organise Mackay’s 2nd Startup Weekend on the 18-20th November. The combined value comes from the Queensland Government – Queensland Startup Events & Activities Fund, Mackay Regional Council, and Bank of Queensland Mackay City Branch.

The hands-on event, to be held from November 18-20th, is open to anyone and everyone – from empowered community leaders, educators, students, developers, designers, makers and marketing gurus alike.

“The biggest benefit of a startup weekend is meeting like-minded entrepreneurs and mentors that will look at your idea from a number of angles, with a process that teaches you how to turn an idea into a reality.” Bret Lynch, serial winner of Startup Weekend Mackay 2015, Sunshine Coast & Cairns 2016.

Participants will experience the highs, lows, fun, and pressure that make up life at a startup. They will have the opportunity to pitch ideas, network with mentors, investors, co-founders, develop prototypes, and present in front of a panel of Shark Tank like judges.

“This year is shaping up to be really interesting. With the hype of our 2015 event still buzzing around Mackay, we should see an abundance of new ideas pitched.” Dennis Murphy, President of Startup Mackay Inc.

The non-profit group has also recently partnered with Star 101.9 FM for radio advertising over a 3 year period, and HipFish Creative Agency for Design, Artwork and Copywriting assistance.

Donated Prizes for the Weekend have been received from BlueChilli with $1.3k in value. Special Guests are Venture Capital firm Big Wave Ventures and Cullens Patent and Trademark Attorneys.

If you are interested in partnering or sponsoring Startup Mackay Inc. or our events, email organisers@startupmackay.org or visit startupmackay.org for more info.