Who, What, Why: Which government departments can help me with my startup?
Here is a list of government departments and where and how they can help you on your startup Journey! We will start with the most commonly shared resources and then briefly talk about others and why you would check out their websites and potentially get in touch with them. This is not a full list so we always recommend doing your research.
Let's get started:
The Dunedin City Council (DCC) - Our local Council does a lot of things to support local startups! Whether that's through their Waste Minimisation team or their Arts funding through Ara Toi. Startup Dunedin has great relationships with the team at DCC so let us know if you want to get in touch but are still determining what team to contact.
Business South - is for small to medium businesses to help connect with each other- they do lots of events and provide support for our region.
Centre of Digital Excellence (CODE) - Code is a resource for people starting up in the gaming industry.
Inland Revenue Department (IRD) - Have some awesome resources- one of our most commonly asked questions is about Tax. IRD has you covered with 1-hour webinars that explain everything - Their introduction to business is great for contractors and small businesses, and they also have one on GST and one for people new to being an employer.
They also have a great guide called “I am starting a new business” This is a fantastic resource that covers things such as compliance, business structures and workshops.
Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand (IPONZ) has all you need to know about Intellectual property (IP) with great explanations, quizzes to test your knowledge and case studies of New Zealand companies that you know and love.
The Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE) oversees the New Zealand startup ecosystem and helps fund local organisations.
The Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) Helps by providing resources and information about importing things into New Zealand.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) Provides resources and information about exporting products out of New Zealand.
New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) For businesses looking to grow and expand internationally.
Te Puni Kōkiri help and possible funding for Māori entrepreneurs.
Digital Boost Is a free online resource to help you with digital marketing they have over 1,000 short videos (2-5 minutes) to help you learn from real stories.
Callaghan Innovation has a range of grants- if you are looking at applying let us know at check-in and we can help you prepare and make an introduction.
Bussess.govt.nz Gives tools and advice from the government to help small businesses. One awesome blog they have is 10 steps to get started in business. They also have quick quizzes to test your knowledge and checklists to cover when getting started or things to consider before you head away on holiday.
Creative New Zealand- invests in artists and arts organisations and helps to build capability.
Pacific Business Trust- help with mentoring, support and possible funding for Pacific people.
Connected.nz - Here is a great post about government support to get you started.