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Welcome to Business South

Connect.Navigate.Empower.

Business South is your Southern Business Association.

We believe that every business should have the best chance at being the best it can be, we optimise employers' health and growth potential through a wide range of support services, training and networking opportunities for whatever stage they are at and advocate for businesses with decision-makers in local and central government. 

Business South is plugged-in, live and connected. Put simply, we're the region's go-to people around ways to accelerate business growth.

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ACCELERATE YOUR BUSINESS

Mindz in Action - Business Conference

Business South proudly presents Mindz in Action, Dunedin's only business conference designed for all industry sectors - bringing together established companies, startups and sole traders for a full day of expert insights, hands-on workshops, and powerful networking.

Part of a wider community

Stronger Together

When you join Business South, you also become part of an expansive national business network with expertise in all areas of business.

As a collective, our voices are amplified. We engage directly with decision-makers, meeting regularly with the Prime Minister, Government Ministers, MPs and other officials to champion your interests and to stay ahead of developments that affect business.

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50% off for Not-for-Profits

Business South is proud to support organisations that make a difference in the community. For limited time only our yearly membership is just $250 per year and 50% off on training courses, thanks to the Otago Community Trust. Eligibility criteria apply. 

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Phone App

Download the Business South phone app to get access to local discounts and hear about the latest updates!

Members App
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Business Advocacy

We are your voice. We are here for businesses to share your insights (what keeps you awake at night) so we can advocate for you to minimise barriers, ideally before they arise. By activating your voice Business South advocates your business issues with decision-makers in local and central government.

Business Advocacy
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Grow your business with our paid promotions for Business South members.

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Our Calendar

Keep in the loop with What's On in the South

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Exportation Support

Exporting can be complex, time-consuming, and full of red tape especially when dealing with shifting regulations, tariffs, and the pressure to meet international requirements. At Business South, we’re here to take the stress out of the process. Our export documentation support is designed to help Otago businesses keep goods moving, reduce delays, and stay compliant in global markets.

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of businesses believe their region is focusing on the right kinds of projects and initiatives to ensure a vibrant and sustainable business community.

of businesses are clear what their region will be known for in 10 years' time.

of businesses believe there is a clear vision and aspiration for their region that is well articulated and understood.

Who are you?

At Business South, we support a wide array of organisations, people and communities.

Who are you?

At Business South, we support a wide array of organisations, people and communities.

Testimonials


Also take a look at our other testimonials

Testimonials


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Highlanders

Webinar: using AI to maximise marketing

Watch the webinar with Kale Panoho, founder of K&J Growth and Managing Director of Rugby Bricks and Protocols.

It was a great session, full of practical insights into how Kiwi businesses can start using AI tools to improve marketing results—without needing big budgets or complex systems.

Datacom announced as principal sponsor for Mindz in Action 2025

Mindz in Action, Otago’s largest and most future-focused business conference, is proud to announce Datacom as the official principal sponsor.

In addition to being the event’s principal sponsor, Datacom will take the stage with two speakers; 

Angela Millward; The evolution of user experience in the era of AI agents: From navigation to collaboration.

Richard Kenyon (HR stream): Embracing AI in our future: Navigating digital transformation with AI

New Health and Safety changes for Otago and Southland businesses 

Business South welcomes the recent announcements by Minister of Workplace Relations and Safety, Hon Brooke van Veldon outlining a series of reforms to New Zealand’s health and safety legislation. These proposed changes aim to improve clarity, reduce unnecessary compliance obligations, and provide more targeted guidance for businesses. 

The Grand Business South Awards 2025

Quarterly Survey Results | February 2025

Business South Expands YES Programme to Queenstown and Wanaka

Business South is excited to announce the expansion of its Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) programme to Queenstown, alongside its long-standing Dunedin programme for the 2025 school year.

YES, offers high school students the chance to develop their own business ventures, providing them with valuable skills and knowledge that will set them up for future success in the business world.

Helping Precious Collaborative Grow a Sustainable Fashion Business

Precious Collaborative, a sustainable fashion start-up in New Zealand, creates high-end clothing using local materials and designers while also making ethical fashion more accessible through its social enterprise, Precious Coats.

Founder Claire O'Connell sought support from the Otago Regional Business Partner Network (ORBP), which connected her with business mentors, training programs, and funding opportunities. ORBP's guidance has been instrumental in helping Claire navigate marketing, sustainability, and business growth, providing her with valuable resources to establish and expand her brand. 

Clear the Queue to Boost Innovation and Primary Sector

BusinessNZ is backing calls for a more efficient regulatory approval process for agricultural and horticultural products. Chief Executive Katherine Rich highlights the challenges businesses face due to slow and costly approvals, often taking years - even for products used safely overseas. BusinessNZ supports the Ministry for Regulations review of the approval process and anticipates further updates once findings are presented to Cabinet.

Collective Bargaining Settlements 2024-2025

Collective bargaining settlements for 2024-25 reflect easing inflationary pressures but remain influenced by rising wages, migrant worker reforms and geopolitical factors. While challenges persist, signs of economic recovery and stabilising business confidence indicate signs of potential recovery in the new year.

Business South Welcomes Renewed Focus on Economic Growth and Regional Development

Business South welcomes the Government’s announcement of a refreshed ministerial team, which signals a renewed focus on economic growth, regional opportunities and needed execution of policy. 

These changes are an encouraging step forward as our region looks to address key challenges and unlock its full potential.