Dannevirke: Network taking care of businesses

Angela Rule (left) and Louise Charlton of the Tararua Business Network, established by the Tararua District Council to provide direction and resources for businesses in the district. Photo / Christine McKay

The Tararua Business Network is buzzing as it encourages the growth and development of businesses throughout Tararua.

Established by the Tararua District Council under its economic development umbrella, the focus of the business network is facilitating, enabling and linking businesses to experts in order to support growth and sustainability.

"We have new clients in every week and we just keep growing. This is a real success story," business network staff member Louise Charlton said. "We're lucky to be able to bring in industry experts who are thrilled to come and use this facility as well."

Fellow staff member Angela Rule said the business network is providing invaluable help.

"People are just glad there is somewhere to go for direction and advice. We can be a one-stop shop and our service is free. It's about walking the talk as a business unit and along with the skills we already have, we're learning too. A lot of people we see are new to business. "

And with their own large network, it is able to call on experts quickly.

"It's about directing people to the right resources," Louise said. "And people are realising the strength and value of this service."

Tararua District mayor Roly Ellis said the network has grown steadily over six years and is giving results, not just for new businesses, but existing ones as well.

"We've helped a hell of a lot of businesses which have been struggling, putting them in touch with experts who can help," he said. "Lianne (Simpkin), the council's economic development and communications manager, has built up good national and regional contacts and the business network is able to help a vast array of businesses and organisations, especially now we've reasonable communications around Tararua.

"The troops have done a good job and we've attended events such as Fieldays, the Auckland Home Show and the national motorhome show and really put Tararua on the map, with a very limited budget. This is a team built on success, but it takes time."

As part of the process of delivering what people need, the business network is running three seminars next week.

Next week's business workshops include how to use social media to the community and market to your consumers, presented by Chelsea Miller of Grass Roots Media, now based in Pahiatua and two free seminars on Wednesday and Thursday, from the IRD and Bevan Ellison of AON in Dannevirke.

Help grow your business:

* Monday, August 22, 3.30pm to 6.30pm: How to use social media - $35 plus GST.

* Wednesday, August 24, 9.30am to 11.30am: IRD introduction to business - free.

* Thursday, August 25, 5.30pm to 6.30pm: Business insurance, where to start - free.

* To register for these seminars, email angela.rule@tararuadic.govt.nz or phone 06 374 4989.