Barista and Customers

Small Business

Small, but mighty.

Small businesses are creative, innovative and dynamic, and are key drivers of economic growth. In fact, small enterprise is often referred to as the ‘engine room of growth’.

Did you know…

Small enterprises represent over 97% of New Zealand firms, and more than half of all Business South members.

How We Can Help


AdviceLine v2

AdviceLine

Free for members, AdviceLine provides business and legal advice to support you with your business queries and concerns.

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Advocacy v2

Advocacy

Amplify your voice and be heard. We’ll engage with you to ensure your views are presented to officials and decision-makers.

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Employment Relations v2

Employment Relations

Our in-house legal team can provide all he assistance you need to address any employment-related issues.

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Sustainability Support v2

Sustainability Support

Receive guidance and advice on implementing meaningful sustainability initiatives to reduce the carbon footprint of your business.

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Training v2

Training

Access a wide range of professional development programmes to take your business to the next level – including bespoke courses for you, delivered on your turf.

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Networking v2

Networking

Mix and mingle with your peers in the local business community at our regular business and social events.

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Community v2

Community

Join the conversation on Trybz, our online community platform, to connect with others in the Southern business community.

Coming Soon
Business Support v2

Business Support

Develop your business and accelerate growth with targeted support, including grants and funding, research and development, business mentoring and much more.

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Workforce Development v2

Workforce Development

Take the hassle out of trades and apprenticeship recruitment and let us source the workforce you need.

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Grid Coffee Barista

It’s great to work with Business South and showcase local food products to the wider Business Community.

Grid Coffee

Upcoming Events


Business Breakfast with Rt Hon Chris Hipkins - Dunedin

21 Aug 2026

Join Business South for an exclusive breakfast with Rt Hon Chris Hipkins, Leader of the Oppositio...

Webinar: Unlock the Value of Experience with Capable NZ

26 Aug 2026

Your organisation may already have the skills and expertise it needs to grow. This webinar e...

Dunedin August BA5 co-hosted by Otago Polytechnic and Innovation Activator

27 Aug 2026

Join us for BA5 on Thursday 27 August, co-hosted by Otago Polytechnic and The Innovation Activato...

Meet the Candidates - Cromwell

08 Sep 2026

'With the 2026 General Election approaching, Business South in association with Elevate Central' ...

Waitaki September Business After 5 hosted by Road Metals

15 Sep 2026

Join us for a ​Business After 5 hosted by the Road Metals team for an evening of connection and c...

Wāhine Connection - Connect with other like-minded wāhine, gain valuable insights, and enjoy drinks and nibbles🥂🎁

22 Sep 2026

Hear from our inspiring speakers: Mayor Sophie Barker and Trish Oakley (Chancellor of the Univers...

Business South Charity Golf Day in support of Abbeyfield Alexandra

25 Sep 2026

⛳ Tee off for something that matters A day of golf, good company and shared purpose, all for a c...

Accelerate South Conference - Dunedin

09 Oct 2026

Book your ticket before 15 August go in the draw to win a $300 Air New Zealand voucher! Accele...

November 2023 Quarterly Southern Business Survey

The latest findings from the Quarterly Southern Business Survey are in.

September Quarterly Southern Business Survey Results

The latest findings from the Quarterly Southern Business Survey are in.

Homestay Hosts Needed

Study Dunedin is looking for local families who are willing to host an international student in their home and involve them in their family life and the local culture.

Exports Crucial to NZ Economy: ExportNZ Pre-Election Report Released

ExportNZ’s 2023 pre-election report sets out the state of play for the sector and invites the next government to collaborate further on the challenges facing businesses.

Abalro Nominated for YES Alumni Awards - Voting Open

Dunedin Young Enterprise Scheme 2021 finals winners, Abalro have been nominated for the Young Enterprise Scheme's Alumni Awards.

Preens Partner with ECCA to Continue to Reduce Emissions

Preens have been monitoring their carbon footprint for 10 years and has been benchmarking themselves within the Apparelmaster network. After working closely with local company Ahikā Consulting, they have put a carbon reduction plan in place.

New HR Advisory Service Exclusively Available to Members

Business South have announced their newest partner Logan HR – a local team of professional Human Resource Consultants, who offer a pragmatic and commercial approach to their advice ensuring it is clear, concise and solutions-based.

Young Enterprise Scheme Student Fuelling Teenagers’ Lifestyles … and Learning

Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) student, Olivia Edmonds is embarking on an exciting entrepreneurial journey as she prepares to take her business to market.

Applications to Initiate Bargaining for an FPA

Ten applications to initiate bargaining for a Fair Pay agreement have been lodged to date.

Quarterly Southern Business Survey Results: May 2023

The results for our Quarterly Southern Business Confidence Survey (May 2023) reveal business expectations of the strength of the Southern economy continue to improve, however increased cost pressures, labour market constraints and compliance requirements remain as barriers to growth and productivity for businesses.