Foundation research for economic development

30 September 2016

Foundation research for economic development in Palmerston North and Manawatū

The newly established Central Economic Development Agency (CEDA) is undertaking a foundation research project to inform strategy and ensure future activities are targeted.

Chief Executive Will Samuels says the research will provide strong feedback from the business community and will build on the work of the recent Regional Growth Study.

“It will enable us to gain independent feedback from a number of businesses about the Manawatū regions competitive advantages, barriers and growth opportunities,” says Mr Samuel.

“It is important that CEDA is focused on where it will make the most difference which is why we are undertaking this research now.”

The research is being undertaken by UMR Research, and approximately 400 Manawatū and Palmerston North businesses and organisations will be involved.

CEDA Chair Malcolm Bailey says the research represents the start of a change in approach to economic development locally.

“The findings will strengthen our focus and provide our funders, the Manawatu District Council and Palmerston North City Council, with a strong understanding of what is enabling and hindering businesses. It will also guide CEDA’s future activities” says Mr Bailey.

Will Samuel says the results of the research will be made public early next year.

“I hope the research will act as a catalyst and bring about more collaboration as we work together to grow our economy.”

About CEDA

The Central Economic Development Agency, CEDA, is tasked with facilitating the growth and creation of economic wealth of Palmerston North and Manawatū. Owned by the Palmerston North City and Manawatu District Councils, it is governed by a board of five – you can find out more about them here.

Some of the activities that we currently undertake include:

The Regional Business Partner Network for city, district and the wider Manawatū-Whanganui region. We assist businesses to innovate and grow by providing advice, information, referrals and connections including:

o NZTE Capability Development vouchers

o Research & Development grant funding from Callaghan Innovation

o The BMNZ business mentors programme.

You can find out more about these at www.regionalbusinesspartners.co.nz.

We aim, through Spearhead Manawatu, to attract both national and international business to the city and district. We actively support companies relocating here, and we work with external partners on initiatives to achieve growth in strategic areas.

CEDA partners with education organisations to deliver the International Education Strategy which aims togrow the number of international students studying here.

Our team delivers major events including the Manawatu Business Awards, SortIt Careers Expo and NZ Agri Investment Week.

Through marketing, we attract more conferences and visitors to stay and experience our wonderful part of New Zealand. Alongside this, we manage the Palmerston North City i–SITE providing visitors and locals with information and booking services for Manawatū and throughout New Zealand. You can find out more about our work herewww.manawatunz.co.nz.

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