New program launched to support new entrepreneurs and migrants in NZ

A new program has been launched to support new entrepreneurs and migrants in establishing their first business in New Zealand.

Massey University's start up incubator ecentre and Aspire2 Group's Ntec Tertiary Group have joined forces to provide the service and help these entrepreneurs to realise their business goals.

Acting CEO of ecentre, Dorian Scott says the program will help build vital skills in this crucial sector of the economy.

"We have been helping launch New Zealand companies from start-up stage for the last 12 years and for the last 5 years through our Sprint Program," Scott says. This program developed from the strong relationship we have established with Ntec Tertiary Group – it leverages on Ntec's focus on the international student market and our migrant community.

The program's aim is to help people in the following scenarios:

• Need help bringing your business idea to market
• Recently moved to NZ and want to make connections in the start-up and innovation community
• Looking to accelerate your business and grow customers both in NZ and overseas
• Starting a business in NZ for the first time
• Looking for investment

According to the program coordinators, the initiative will provide participants with the tools and knowledge to evaluate business ideas, develop and test business models and create a compelling investment proposition, the connections into the local start-up and innovation community, and the winning pitch for investment.

Each program is customised for the group of participants and is run with a group of entrepreneurs sharing insights and supporting each other. There is a combination of tutorials to learn workshops to put those tools into practice on your own business or idea.

Aspire2 International CEO, Clare Bradley says there are a number of significant challenges for those new to NZ and wanting to set up a business.

"This program will speed the process for them and help them more quickly build the skills and understanding they need to succeed in New Zealand," Bradley concludes.