With our dinner for event startups in partnership with evvnt fast approaching, we are spotlighting the businesses that we’re bringing together over food. Today’s events startup is We Are Pop Up and it’s co-founder, Mike Salter.

What’s the elevator pitch for your startup?

We Are Pop Up connects brands and businesses to short-term commercial space for the purpose of creating pop-up shop experiences. In 2013 we launched over 150 pop up shops for businesses ranging from retail and accessories to restaurants and bars, and technology and art galleries. At the end of 2013 we added our two newest features: online payments & automated (digital) contract signing. Today, We Are Pop UP is the first and only website where brands and landlords can transact commercial property entirely online.

What were you doing before you launched your startup?

I was a studio artist influenced by 90’s – contemporary grunge, advertising, pornography and television culture. I was using digital large-format printing, refurbished tv screens, and paint to make objects, paintings and installations intended to bend minds and offend the skittish.

Where did you meet your co-founders?

I met Nick in Los Angeles, back in the early 2000’s. And I met Alastair via Nick in London after we all happened to be at the same place at the same time.

What’s your biggest ‘hindsight’ moment?

We should have made more room for sofas in our office.

What will 2014 bring?

Bigger, better, faster and stronger pop up experiences!

1 piece of advice for someone starting a business in the events space?

Talk to the people who need help and make sure you build something they love. 

Convince someone to use your product/service in under 50 words.

Before We Are Pop Up, it took an average of 6-8 weeks to secure, book and sign the legals for a short-term commercial property let in the UK. Today on We Are Pop Up you can do it all in less than a week from anywhere in the world.

What’s your favourite startup in the events space (not including your own)?

The Dolls House, Hoxton Square

What’s your favourite London restaurant?

Okan – Brixton Market

We’ve not tried Okan, but it is now firmly on the must-do list. Look out for our next spotlight later this week.

Thanks to our dinner sponsors: