An End-of-Year Party with a COIN South Twist. It’s outlandish, imaginative, and above all, a celebration of innovation. As a team, this is one of our favourite events to host. So, we thought, why not incorporate it into our year-end celebration? We'd like to welcome you to Popcorn Pitch.

To kick off the event, we'll enjoy a quick-fire round of pitches from individuals with startup ideas, as well as those innovating within established businesses.

For those up for the challenge, you’ll be given two words and a few seconds to devise a business idea and a pitch that melds these concepts. Last year's highlights included 'duck milk' and 'venison ice cream'.

Whether you’re coming for the laughs, to pitch your ideas, or simply for some end-of-year cheer, we'd love to see you there!

Never been to a Popcorn Pitch before? Here is what you need to know.

A quickfire round of pitches.

In Southland, many people keep their ideas close to their chest, worried someone might snatch their stroke of genius. But the truth is, an idea holds no value until it's brought to life.

The first part of Popcorn Pitch offers a platform for anyone with a startup idea or for those wanting to introduce an innovative idea into an existing business. It’s a chance to pitch to a room full of potential supporters and leave with one significant ‘Ask’. Your ‘Ask’ could range from a simple page like on social media to securing a first investor in your product. Perhaps you’re in search of a teammate, a specific contact, or a skill you need to acquire. Whatever it is, you get one ‘Ask’.

Up to the challenge of pitching on the spot?

The second part of Popcorn Pitch is where the fun really begins – it's the ridiculous part, open to all. Take a spin on the chocolate wheel, receive two words, and then conjure up a business idea on the spot. Present your pitch to the audience for a chance to win some exciting prizes.

The fun doesn’t stop there – join us afterwards for drinks and nibbles.