$20k worth of gift offers for business mentoring help

Business Mentors NZ chief executive Sarah Trotman. Picture supplied

Gisborne and Wairoa businesses have been given a helping hand as they continue to work through the impacts of Cyclone Gabrielle.

Business Mentors New Zealand is supporting the ongoing recovery of those affected, with $20,000 worth of mentor registrations for businesses that are continuing in their recovery.

“Our existing community of mentors are rallying together to support business owners in the immediate aftermath of a weather event. We see a critical need for us to extend our help” says Business Mentors New Zealand chief executive Sarah Trotman.

The not-for-profit organisation has a trusted relationship with other business support organisations, Trust Tairāwhiti and Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, and is working together to support affected business owners.

The gift will fund up to 66 business owners to receive 12 months of mentoring at Business Mentors NZ, where businesses are paired with experienced individuals to help support and navigate their various challenges.

“Pandemics, earthquakes and global financial crisis, our mentors have seen it all and found ways to not only survive but thrive,” Trotman said.

“As difficult as the reality is for many who have been affected by the recent weather events, we know that our mentors can make a positive difference.”

Trotman also sees the timing of the grant as pivotal timing as this week sees the closing of applications for the $75m small business support from Government.

“Regardless of what level of support businesses might receive, making well-informed and supported decisions will be critical for their futures, and we want to be there to help”.

Business Mentors NZ has over 1800 mentors, available both locally and virtually, from a wide range of industries nationwide and has mentors available to guide business owners now.

• Applications are open now for registrations and can be accessed through Business Mentors New Zealand’s website: https://content.businessmentors.org.nz/expression-of-interest-weather-events