Bay of Plenty small-to-medium enterprises are more likely to give their support to community sport groups than any other region in New Zealand, a new survey by the BNZ has found.
Nationwide the survey found nearly three quarters of those who responded thought businesses should support their communities, and 58 per cent were supporting local community groups or charities.
A quarter of supporting businesses expected to increase their support over the coming year and 78 per cent did not expect any return on their investment.
Devan Plastics general manager Jamie Lunam said businesses had an obligation to assist community groups where possible.
"On a small scale we support just about anyone who comes to the door asking for help. For example if they are selling those fundraiser chocolate bars we will buy a whole box and walk around the factory handing them out to the staff.