Wool fund applications close 31 July

Wool fund applications close 31 July

Entrepreneurial wool businesses have until 31 July to apply for funding from the Wool Enterprise Programme managed by Meat & Wool New Zealand.

Meat & Wool New Zealand Manager Emerging Markets, Nick Beeby says ideal candidates for funding are market-driven, smaller wool industry initiatives from New Zealand grower groups and manufacturers with strong links to grower groups.

Businesses may apply for up to $100,000 of funding which must be matched 50:50 with funding from the applicant group.

“The Wool Enterprise Programme fits directly with our goal of working with sheep and beef farmers to open up market opportunities and drive gains in profitability,” says Mr Beeby.

“We think partnering is one of the smartest ways we can achieve the profitability outcomes our growers are looking for. Linking Meat & Wool New Zealand funding to grower and manufacturer initiatives is a great example of that.”

The Wool Enterprise Programme offers general business mentoring, skills development and help with accessing industry networks. The focus is on improving returns to wool growers through developing general business capabilities, industry knowledge, and strategic and market planning skills.

Applications for the Wool Enterprise Programme will be assessed by an industry advisory panel and undergo a viability and needs assessment to review business fundamentals against best practice standards.

Applicants need to demonstrate a point of difference from the primary routes to the market, through a particular technology, specific niche market requirement, brand proposition, or product specification. They must show at least some initial success with their value proposition. They will also be required to show that they have or are prepared to invest time, money and resources in the success of the project.

The Wool Enterprise Programme is designed to support the strategic objectives developed by the Wool Industry Network. As well as receiving Meat & Wool New Zealand funding, the programme will also receive support from New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE).

ENDS

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