Local businesses wanted for Incubate programme

Sarah Ziessen who owns and runs Helium Gallery. Photo/Supplied

A programme that helps businesses and social enterprises succeed and grow is seeking applications from Rotorua and Kawerau organisations for the next intake.

Participants will receive one-on-one coaching sessions and group training modules to build business capability to help them on the path to success.

Rotorua X chairman and Incubate programme creator and director Darren McGarvie said that in the last eighteen months nearly fifty organisations had been through the programme in Rotorua and Kawerau.

"The programme helps organisations set up for long-term success. Research from the Institute of Directors has shown that only three in ten organisations reach their fifth birthday. Through the Incubate programme we want to improve these figures for local businesses and social enterprises."

"The programme embeds the philosophy that you need to work on the business to succeed. It teaches participants to set goals, implement actions and after 12 weeks they will walk away with a business plan to help them succeed," Mr McGarvie said.

Rotorua X, who runs the programme, is a charitable trust set up to inspire, grow and launch businesses and social enterprises in Rotorua.

Incubate was developed for the trust by Firestation, the Bay of Plenty's business growth centre. It is supported by other organisations including BDO and the Employers and Manufacturers Association.

The programme is generously subsidised thanks to sponsorship from Rotorua Lakes Council and Kawerau Enterprise Agency.

"Feedback has been incredibly positive, with all participants saying they would recommend the programme to other business owners. We are pleased to be making a real difference to local organisations," said Mr McGarvie.

Sarah Ziessen who owns and runs Helium Gallery graduated from Incubate in March. Helium Gallery opened in November last year with a mission to showcase emerging and established artists and provide a welcoming environment for art lovers to enjoy and purchase New Zealand made art.

Mrs Ziessen applied for Incubate as she wanted to successfully launch the business, reach sales target, manage workflow and forge good relationships with customers and artists.

"The course covered all the key aspects to help set us on the path to running a successful business. I have an increased strategic focus and approach sales differently," she said.

"Ultimately, Incubate has made me feel more in control of the business."

Rotorua X Incubate applications close Wednesday 20th April with the programme commencing in early May. Rotorua and Kawerau businesses and social enterprises are invited to register their interest online at http://bit.ly/RXInc6

Rotorua X Incubate includes:

· Eight group sessions covering topics such as Growth Mindset & Self-Management, Marketing Essentials, Sales Strategies, Employment Law, Online Marketing, Business Essentials, Tax & Xero and Pitching & Pricing.

·Two one-on-one coaching sessions.

·Final session all participants must present a business plan.