Start up bringing business ideas to life

Budding Ka¯ piti businesses and entrepreneurs can now register for a free start up programme aimed at bringing great business ideas to life.

The Pop-Up Business School, which is a comprehensive 10-day course consisting of online and inperson workshops, covers everything from starting a business to online sales to networking.

“This course is a great programme for an emerging business owner or anyone interested in knowing what is involved in starting a business,” business and jobs portfolio holder councillor Angela Buswell said.

“It will help them to build the confidence and core skills to tap into their personal potential and get out there.

“It’s not just new businesses that can benefit, however.

“As Ka¯ piti begins to recover from our work to eliminate Covid-19, we know that our business community is having to adapt and pivot to a new normal. “If you’re a small business facing change and have some ideas on how you might do that, this course can help you also.”

Now in its third year in Ka¯ piti, the programme is delivered by PopUp Business School Aotearoa with support from Ka¯ piti Coast District Council, WellingtonNZ and the Ministry of Social Development. “We’ve seen some exciting new businesses popping up across

Ka¯ piti after going through the programme with 60 percent of participants in 2019 having either started, or in the process of starting a business,” Buswell said.

Spots are limited to 75 participants.

Local businesses are also encouraged to enter the annual Electra Business and Innovation Awards and Wellington Gold Awards.

The Electra Business and Innovation Awards celebrate innovation and best business practice across all industries and sectors in Ka¯ piti and Horowhenua, and this year include a Covid-19 Innovation award.

“I’m incredibly proud of how our business community has managed the opportunities and challenges of the last few months and while it’s a difficult time for many, it’s important to take time to celebrate our successes and steps taken to ensure that we can continue to operate in this new environment,” Buswell said.

“Both events are well established and respected, and notable Ka¯ piti businesses such as Omeo Technology and NZ Proud have overcome regional competition in previous years to be recognised for their outstanding work. “I’m excited to see the entries Ka¯ piti puts forward for both events this year.”