News
Venture Southland has been chosen to deliver the Government’s new Regional Business Partner Programme which is launched today.
Paul Casson Chief Executive Officer – “The Regional Business Partner Network is jointly funded by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise and Callaghan Innovation. Venture Southland works very closely with government, local businesses, and within the community having the ability to reach Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) across the region through strong links and stakeholder relationships to deliver business support through the Regional Business Partner Network programme.
New Zealand’s economy is built upon its regions, each of which has different strengths and specialisations and this commitment by Government provides the catalyst to focus on continued growth for small to medium enterprises. Venture Southland in 2014 / 2015 achieved the highest user satisfaction levels in the country and this announcement confirms the performance of Venture Southland and government’s further commitment to Southland. This is a great partnership and the continued investment in Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) is certainly welcomed as the region faces new challenges and opportunities”.
Venture Southland has a strong track record in delivering services to Southland businesses. Venture Southland assists almost 2000 businesses each year through industry networks, regional projects, commercial partnerships, sector initiatives and knowledge sharing. Over 400 businesses receive tailored support each year, including funding for training, research and development, business mentorship and in-depth business planning support.
Major initiatives planned for 2016 include:
• Business efficiency programmes – Venture Southland’s Lean Manufacturing and Lean Dairy initiatives have to date assisted over 50 businesses to make average productivity gains of 33%. 22 companies are signed up for 2016.
• Retail and service sector focus – Workshops and projects with will support retailers innovate both online and in the local community
• Labour Market support and development – Targeted programmes including the “Invest in Youth” campaign will help connect employers and talent more effectively
• Digital enablement – Workshops will help businesses get the most out of ultrafast broadband where it is available, while Venture Southland continues to advocate for improved services across the region
• Innovation and R&D – Programmes and workshops highlighting support available through Venture Southland and Callaghan Innovation including access to experts, R&D funding, innovation clusters and new product development
• Energy efficiency and innovation –
• New industry development – Venture Southland is working with potential investors on a number of food, beverage, mineral and land use projects
Steve Canny, GM – Business and Strategic Projects said “Southland has a dynamic business community which punches above its weight, producing 12% of all New Zealand’s tradable exports. Venture Southland is very proud to regularly be the top rated Regional Business Partner in New Zealand and is committed to supporting businesses of all sizes and sectors to innovate and grow. ”