Startup World Cup is coming to City of Moreton Bay. Join us for an energising evening of connection, bold ideas, and global ambition — and discover how local startups are scaling disruption and stepping onto the world stage.
Some of the boldest startups on the planet are being built far from Silicon Valley — and Queensland is no exception. As we gear up to host the Startup World Cup Queensland Final in July 2025, this event brings together the founders, researchers, investors, and ecosystem leaders turning local breakthroughs into global ventures.
Winner of the 2024 Startup World Cup NZ Regional Final, Natalia is the co-founder of Kitea Health — a medtech startup developing the world’s most accurate implantable sensor. Spun out of the University of Auckland, Kitea’s journey to Silicon Valley is a masterclass in commercialising deep tech from a small market.
Natalia will share her founder journey, the experience of competing on the global stage, and insights into what it takes to build and scale a world-first startup from the regions.
A dynamic conversation exploring:
How bold ventures grow from regional roots — especially here in Queensland
The intersection of research, investment, and innovation leadership
What excites today’s investors, founders, and ecosystem enablers
How local startups can tap into global pathways
Panellists include:
Natalia Lopez – Co-Founder, Kitea Health
Phil Ceulen – Managing Partner, Mandalay Venture Partners
Peter Laurie – CEO, Inductive & River City Labs mentor
Professor Nick Paul – University of the Sunshine Coast, blue economy and biotech expert
Founders and startups ready to scale
Innovators exploring commercialisation pathways
Investors, mentors, and startup supporters
Anyone passionate about growing world-class ventures from regional Queensland
📍 Location: Engagement Hub, UniSC Petrie Campus
📅 Date: Thursday, 29 May 2025
🕓 Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Networking to follow)
REGISTER HERE
Connect with innovators, be inspired by bold ideas, and find out how you could represent Queensland on the global stage.
