Originally from the USA but living in New Zealand since 1982, Dave is a professional director and startup investor. He’s been called the “godfather of Wellington startups”, and was involved in the establishment of the AngelHQ – the local Wellington Angel investment network, Lightning Lab – New Zealand’s startup accelerator, and Startup NZ – the national startup support organisation.

Dave is a director for a number of startups and larger organisations such as Open Polytechnic and InternetNZ. Dave is a successful serial entrepreneur, but has also been involved in numerous lexicography projects, nonprofits, social enterprises, and interfaith initiatives. He blogs at http://dave.moskovitz.co.nz/ and tweets @davemosk. He also curates the NZ Startup of the Week website at http://sotw.nz/

Waikato University - Director of Innovation and Impact

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Rosanne is an intrapreneur and knowledge mobilisation specialist with more than 20 years of experience across the science, research and innovation ecosystem. Her
career covers a diverse range of sectors and experiences with a common theme in connecting research and innovation with the commercial sector – her passion lies in the magic created through bringing these worlds together. Rosanne has held many senior leadership and executive positions within universities and research organisations with a focus on strategy setting, governance, stakeholder engagement
and commercialisation. She has a PhD in environmental toxicology.

With a proven track record of creating and nurturing vibrant, inclusive communities, I am passionate about fostering connections, revealing collaboration opportunities and seeing individuals thrive.

Working at the intersection of education and innovation, I have developed a unique set of aptitudes and skills honed specifically around Community Building. Co-founding Venture Centre, an impact enterprise support organisation, Basestation an independent co-working space, and founding Stand Tall, have each contributed to grow my entrepreneurial abilities and mindset. These initiatives reflect my dedication to championing entrepreneurship, innovation, personal growth and prosperity, providing platforms for emerging talents and makers to thrive in Tauranga and beyond.

Pauli is passionate about building meaningful connections and empowering people in the startup ecosystem.

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As co-founder of MUV Talks, she helps share inspiring stories encouraging positive action. Previously, she advised Kiwi entrepreneurs at GridAKL, connecting them with vital resources.

She is also a Global Facilitator for Startup Weekend and curates Startup Digest Aotearoa New Zealand. As an Ambassador for The Community Collective, Pauli creates initiatives that empower community builders. Her focus is on fostering collaboration and growth through community building and event planning.

In her day job, Irene is a Senior Investment Analyst at VC firm Nuance Connected Capital where she supports disruptive deep tech startups to scale and grow.

Previously, she supported the early stages of the startup lifecycle by working with accelerator and incubator companies with their first steps and raising their first set of external funding. Deeply committed to growing a diverse ecosystem, Irene is also the Program Delivery Lead at OnBoard, which focuses on enhancing start-up board diversity and governance practices. She holds a Master's in Forensic Science from Auckland University and began her career as a chemist.

When she's not working, you can find her traveling the world, exploring different cultures, and eating to her heart's content. 

Nick has experience in both the public and private sectors. He has started and exited his own business, brokered multiple business exits, and worked in corporate venturing and venture capital, investing in New Zealand startups.

Nick approaches challenges with a commercial lens, making data-driven decisions, and is deeply committed to building partnerships that drive mutually beneficial outcomes. He is dedicated to helping founders navigate early-stage growth and develop commercially viable strategies for long-term success. 

Outside of work, Nick enjoys spending time with his two rambunctious boys and wife, and loves to travel.