More New Zealand small businesses than ever are turning to the Regional Business Partner (RBP) Network for support and advice, with the 2024/25 financial year recording the highest engagement levels seen outside the Covid-19 response period.
Nearly 4,500 businesses accessed RBP services over the past year – a 7% increase on 2023/24, and a 13% rise compared to 2022/23. The growth reflects a strong appetite among small firms for expert guidance, capability building, and practical tools to help them adapt and thrive.
The RBP Network is delivered nationwide in collaboration with local chambers of commerce, economic development agencies, and national provider Poutama Trust. Together with Business Mentors New Zealand (BMNZ), the programmes provide tailored support designed to lift resilience and foster growth across the country’s small business sector.
Director business and consumer Diana Loughnan says the latest results show the value entrepreneurs place on having trusted advisors close at hand. “Customer satisfaction is high, and many businesses are sharing their positive experiences with others,” says Loughnan. “If you’re a business owner looking to grow, adapt, or simply get advice, we encourage you to connect with your local RBP or Business Mentors New Zealand.”
Alongside its traditional services, the network has been strengthening its role in helping small businesses adopt emerging technologies. In collaboration with BMNZ, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has rolled out training for business mentors and growth advisors across the country to build capability in supporting AI adoption.
The training enables mentors and advisors to identify opportunities where artificial intelligence can add value, and to guide businesses on their journey to integrating new tools. “Small businesses are critical to our economy’s success,” Loughnan says. “However, they often face barriers to adopting AI, including limited expertise and resources. By equipping mentors and advisors with the right tools and knowledge, we’re helping businesses take practical steps toward using AI to boost productivity and stay competitive, without needing a large tech team or budget.”
MBIE has also announced a funding boost of $350,000 per annum for BMNZ over the next two years. The additional investment will allow the organisation to provide mentorship and support to around 750 more businesses annually.
“This funding ensures our services grow alongside the needs of the business community, providing more mentorship and tailored support where it’s needed most,” Loughnan says.
With engagement numbers at record highs and expanded resources now available, the RBP Network and BMNZ are set to play an even greater role in supporting the backbone of the New Zealand economy: its small businesses.