Changes to the Enterprise Training Programme
June 2010
The Enterprise Training Programme is ending on 30 June 2010 and a new model for providing capability building, information, and development services for small businesses will be implemented around New Zealand over the next few months.
A nationwide network of 14 ‘regional partner’ organisations with links to their local communities and to government business assistance is being set up by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) and the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology (the Foundation). These regional partners will assess local businesses and point them to capability building services, advisors, information, and other public and private services that meet their particular development needs.
At the same time, the way training for business is funded is changing. In the past, NZTE has directly funded training providers to offer fully funded training to eligible businesses through the Enterprise Training Programme. In future a partial subsidy will be provided directly to eligible businesses, as assessed by the regional partner.
This funding will be in the form of a voucher which will partially cover the cost of capability building services for eligible businesses – the details about how this will work are being developed and more information will be made available once this is completed.
The changes are designed to give businesses greater flexibility in their training and development choices, allow more training providers to compete to deliver them, and make it easier for them to access these services.
The new regional partner network is expected to be implemented around New Zealand over the next few months. In the meantime, there continue to be a number of places to find business information and advice:
- information and tools on this site are designed specifically for small and ediumsized businesses, and the people who advise and support them.
biz Information Centres
- biz ‘walk-in’ centres around New Zealand will remain open until 30 September 2010, after which time the new regional network will continue to provide assistance.
biz Information line
- call 0800 42 49 46 for information and advice on running your business, including information about privately-run training courses that may meet your needs.
Business Mentors NZ
- matching eligible businesses with skilled and experienced business mentors.
New Zealand Trade and Enterprise
- businesses thinking of exporting or already doing so can access resources such as guides to international markets and trends at www.nzte.govt.nz or by calling 0800 555 888.
TechNZ
- talk to TechNZ’s existing network of regional partners for advice and funding in relation to business research and development. Phone 0800 832 469 for your nearest partner.
Local Economic Development Agencies, Chambers of Commerce, and organisations such as Business New Zealand and Export New Zealand also offer services to help businesses build their capabilities.
More information about the changes to NZTE’s services can be found in the media announcement from 19 May 2010 at www.beehive.govt.nz/minister/gerry+brownlee and on NZTE’s website www.nzte.govt.nz/training.
Please contact Nikki Mills for more assistance 06 350 1819 or nikki@visionmanawatu.org.nz
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