CEDA offers comprehensive support for entrepreneurs and businesses at every stage. From startup guidance to growth strategies we are here to help.
Starting a business is a big step, and there’s a lot to think about. You might build something from scratch, buy an existing business, or take on a franchise. The Starting a business page on business.govt.nz is a great place to start. This page outlines each option and covers the essentials – from planning and structure, to funding and tax.


Once your business is up and running, you might want to grow it. The Growing a business page on business.govt.nz is a great place to start. Explore your options, from innovating and collaborating, to exporting, boosting your marketing or looking for government support and resources.
BUSINESS MENTORS NZ
Connects business owners with experienced mentors for one-on-one advice.
THE FACTORY
Experts in launching tech startups and helping businesses grow.
SPROUT ACCELERATOR
Supports AgTech and FoodTech entrepreneurs in scaling their businesses.
TE WĀNANGA O AOTEAROA
Offers free Te Arawhānu business courses to help you upskill.
This is a central government initiative designed to support small and medium-sized businesses looking to grow and innovate. CEDA is the agency that supports the Manawatū-Whanganui regions businesses through the Regional Business Partner Network (RBP). Is your business looking to grow, develop, or innovate? Here’s how you can connect to RBP:
1
REGISTER
Sign up with the Regional Business Partner network.
2
DISCOVERY SESSION
Meet with a CEDA Business Growth Advisor to discuss your goals.
3
ACTION PLAN
We'll support you to develop a tailored action plan for your business
4
SUPPORT
We'll help you to access the relevant funding, mentoring, or networking opportunities.
Check out this page here to see a list of our upcoming workshops that are registered with the Regional Business Partner Network, meaning eligible businesses are able to access co-funding support. To see if your business is eligible, you will need to go through the steps above and meet with one of our Business Growth Advisors.
Signing up to our Training and Development Guide is another great way to stay in the loop with upcoming training opportunities.
“The mentorship and connections we’ve had through CEDA have been instrumental in helping us access the funding and business support we needed to grow. Having that human aspect- a sounding board, a coffee meeting - is so much more effective than just submitting applications online.”
Andy Shilton, Co-Founder of NovoLabs