News

Quarterly Survey Results | November 2024

The latest Quarterly Business Survey shows a continued improvement in confidence among Southern businesses, although there are businesses trying to work through some challenging times.

Thank you to our Otago and Southland businesses for stepping up and supporting this survey.  We had a great mix across business size, sectors and geographical spread.  The insights will be used in our advocacy work and at both central and local government levels. 

Read the Results here.   

Looking Ahead to 2025 - A Word From the BSCO Committee Chair

2024 has been a challenging year, with rising costs, economic uncertainty, and political changes.

Yet, Central Otago remains resilient, boasting low unemployment, strong wage growth, and a vibrant small-business community.

MET series launched

The MET series is a new initiative to showcase some our fantastic local engineering and manufacturing companies, and also designed to provide an opportunity to network, share insights, information and an avenue to support our Manufacturing and Engineering companies.

On the 14th of November we held our first MET at EB Engineering, sponsored by Mainfreight. Read more about the event and key take aways from the night. 

50% off on training for Not-for-Profits

We're thrilled to announce that any not-for profit receives 50% off on our training, thanks to the Otago Community Trust. This applies to members, but also non-members. Terms and Conditions apply.

Here at Business South, we are committed to supporting Not-For-Profit organisations across our region. We offer essential, resources, training, advocacy, networking opportunities, and tools to help your organisation succeed and make an even greater impact in the community. 

Thanks to recent funding, we're thrilled to announce a new specially discounted membership rate for Not-For-Profits. 

CEO Report

This past year has been one of growth, inclusiveness, and adaptation positioning us strongly for the future.

We have continued to realign and evolve our services to meet the changing needs of our members. Business South is increasingly recognised as a trusted and impactful partner within the regions of Otago and Southland and also across the Business NZ network and beyond.

Our reputation as a modern, progressive and adaptable organisation continues to grow. This being supported by a membership base that values relevance, diversity and solutions tailored to their needs. We have moved to an industry and sector model offering packages of services that meet the needs to these businesses.

The Role of Mentorship in Shaping Smartblue Technologies’ Green Innovation

Smart Blue technologies is based right here in Otago, has been using a business mentor which has been invaluable to their business.

They are eager to pioneer advanced technologies and solutions in the green energy sector. Their overarching purpose is to accelerate emissions reduction and actively contribute to the global endeavour towards a sustainable, carbon-free future. Their vision at SMARTBLUE TECHNOLOGIES is rooted in the belief that renewable energy should be available to all for the greater good of society.

Business South Board Election 2024

There are eleven candidates standing for four places on the Business South Board.  

We have contracted electionz.com, to manage this process.

The primary contact of each eligible Business South member will receive one vote and this is via a voting platform with unique Pin and Password.

Education Perfect Recognised in Sir Paul Callaghan 100 Report

At Business South, our Callaghan Innovation team has access to a range of support and grants suitable for all stages of the business lifecycle.

Congrats to Education Perfect who were named as one of the top three companies recognised in the Callaghan Innovation - Sir Paul Callaghan 100 report. This report celebrates companies that have become the world-leading, world-bettering, innovative businesses that Sir Paul envisioned, who could "turn this country around” - into a high-wage, high-tech, high-value economy. 

Callaghan Innovations Role in POP's Journey

At Business South, our Callaghan Innovation team has access to a range of supports and grants suitable for all stages of the business lifecycle. 

We are proud to announce the latest investment from Sprout Agritech in POP|Daily Canine Health, a company dedicated to redefining pet wellness with science-backed superfoods.\

Thanks to Callaghan Innovations Deep Tech Incubator program, POP has been able to access the funding needed to bring their vision to life. 

Building and Construction Changes Ahead

The Government is investigating options for a major reform of the building consent system, with the intention of improving efficiency and consistency across the country.  

The YES Otago Finals 2024

Congratulations to the winners of the YES Otago Finals; Second Harvest Sips. 

Young Enterprise (YES) is a program where students set up and run a real business. Each YES company creates its own product or service and brings it to market. Secondary students in years 12 and 13 can participate in this program. Business South is happy to support this initiative.

Wahine Connection - 24 October

The Wāhine Connection - an event by women for women. It's focused on connecting women from all walks of life. To empower us, build our skills be it in business, wellbeing or our community. This event in Dunedin will host Katherine Rich (CEO Business NZ), Associate Professor Moana Theodore (Director Dunedin Study) and Sara Munro (Fashion Designer).

Bubbles and nibbles included at the fabulous Fable Hotel including lucky prize draws from Noel Leeming, Air NZ, Fable, Bellissima Hair and much more!