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Business Support

Business Waikato

The Waikato is home to hundreds of thriving businesses whose people enjoy the economic, social and lifestyle benefits our region has to offer.

There is a wide variety of business support options available in the Waikato, use this page to explore which option is best for your business.

Business Support Programmes


Soda Inc.

Business Advisory Service

Soda Inc. is the new Regional Business Partner for the Waikato. 

Soda is part of the Regional Business Partner network (RBP). Their Business Growth Advisors can connect you with business support services such as capability development funding and training, and research & development (R&D) services and grants.

If you are a business seeking advice and support to help you grow, find out more here. 

Business Mentors

Business Mentors

Access to support from New Zealand Business Mentors is available to Waikato businesses.

Mentees will have up to 12 months' access to a Business Mentor who will help you develop your business and yourself as a business owner. Apply to become a New Zealand Business Mentee or Mentor here. 

Digital Boost

Digital Boost Programme

The Digital Boost Programme is a free tool Kiwi businesses can use to future-proof their business with a wide range of information specifically for digital skill development.

A free set of resources and programmes are available to help you bring your business online with confidence.

Visit Digital Boost to discover the digital skills to boost your business.

Business Chambers & Associations

There are many business chambers and associations operating in the Waikato region. These membership organisations support and advocate on behalf of local businesses. Find your nearest business chamber or association below:

Networks and Sector Support

Multiple business networks and sector support organisations are available to connect and assist businesses in the Waikato region. These include:

  • Te Hūmeka Māori Business Network supports Waikato-based Māori businesses and provides platforms for them to network on a local, national, and international scale.  

  • Waikato-Tainui’s Pakihi Support service is available for registered tribal members that are running a business, consultancy or have a side-hustle.  

  • The Waikato Pacific Business Network works to grow more sustainable, more profitable, and well-connected Pacific owned businesses and professionals in the Waikato region.  

  • The Waikato-Hauraki-Coromandel Rural Support Trust works with primary producers during challenging times, providing free one-on-one confidential support for farmers and growers.  

  • The On Farm Support service provides on-the-ground help for farmers and growers via a Waikato regional advisor.  

  • The Forestry Advisory Service provides advice to landowners who are interested in growing trees. They can help you determine the right tree, in the right place, for the right purpose, and can help you access specific support if you need it.

Regional Tourism Organisations

A Regional Tourism Organisation (RTO) looks after destination marketing for your region, and is responsible for promoting your region to domestic and international tourists. Across the broader Waikato region we have three RTOs who work to identify opportunities for tourism promotion and highlight the benefits of spending time in the Waikato. Find your local RTO below:

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