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Business mentor programme goes region-wide

Business mentor programme goes region-wide


27 January 2011

A major contract to deliver the Business Mentors New Zealand programme across the region has been awarded to Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development, a council-controlled organisation.

Clyde Rogers, general manager business sector development for Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development says it is the first time business mentoring services have been grouped under one provider for the entire region.

“For many years we have delivered the programme to north Auckland businesses, while other organisations offered the service to the rest of the region,” says Mr Rogers.

“From 1 February we will be offering the same level of mentoring to businesses across Auckland, whether they are based in Waiuku, Howick, Orewa, Kumeu or Queen Street,” he says.

Established in 1991, the nationwide business mentor programme matches more than 2000 small to medium- sized enterprises (SMEs) with volunteer mentors each year.

Ray Schofield, CEO of Business Mentors New Zealand, says SME businesses have the potential to be the “backbone” of New Zealand’s economy if nurtured correctly.

“This is exactly the focus of the mentor programme. SMEs can benefit directly from the vast experience and abilities brought to the table by our team of mentors,” says Mr Schofield.

Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development will deliver the programme through its offices in Albany, Henderson, Manukau and Pukekohe, and will partner with the Auckland Regional Chamber of Commerce to provide the service in the central city.

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Auckland Chamber of Commerce chief executive Michael Barnett says his organisation has delivered the mentor programme directly in Auckland central for a number of years.

“Working together on this programme is strategically beneficial to all businesses in the central city and signifies the beginning of a solid relationship between our organisations, which can only benefit the entire region,” he says.

The business mentoring programme aims to enhance small business sustainability using the skills and experience of successful business people.

Businesses can register for the mentor programme at www.businessmentors.org.nz

ENDS

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