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Get the business support you need

Running a business is like a balancing act. Planning. Marketing. Finance. And more. Where do you even start?

But you can get advice, support and information, and possibly funding. Find out what’s available to new and established businesses, and how to put your hand up.

Construction workers shaking hands

New to business? Help is at hand

Getting started isn’t easy, but you can get help to jump those first hurdles. Even better, the help is often free or low-cost.

Been around a while? You can get support too

Even if you have experience under your belt, you might want support too. Perhaps you want to check that you’re doing things right. Or you may want advice on exporting, funding to develop your invention, or mentoring to be a better leader.

Look out for grant scams

Before you pay anyone who says they can help you get a grant, do research to check if it’s a scam. Own Your Online’s Scam check for business is a great place to start. 

Scam check for business — Own Your Online

Get the support you’re after

When you ask for support, you’re asking for someone’s money, time or other resources. Even if you don’t have to pay for it, there’s a cost to someone. Do these few things to increase your chances of getting that support.  

Before you ask, make sure you have these things:

  • a business plan
  • a strong business case for the funding or services you want
  • market research and validation for your business plan, if you’re a new business 
  • a track record of how your business is performing financially, if you’re an established business. 

Make a solid plan 

A solid business plan gets your reader to sit up. Preparing it helps you think in a structured way, and shows you’ve done your homework. The better you explain your thinking, the better someone can help. 
 
Don’t have all the answers? Don’t worry. Even knowing what you don’t know or where you’re stuck is useful.
 
Preparing a business plan will take a while, but it’ll be worth it.  

Get tips on how to write a business plan — business.govt.nz

Watch short videos on business planning, and download a template — business.govt.nz

Knock on the right door  

Make sure you approach the right organisation for your needs. Applying for support can take a lot of time and sometimes a fee. You don’t want to waste your time or theirs. 

Check the organisation’s website about what they offer, then check if you meet their criteria. Your industry association (for example, Retail NZ or Hospitality NZ) or local chamber of commerce will be able to advise you. 

Find a Chamber of Commerce — New Zealand Chambers of Commerce 

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