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Start ups

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There are a lot of things to think about when starting a business or expanding. We can provide information and advice on resource consents, building consents, environmental health (food and alcohol licences) and transport.

Business start-up team

Starting a new business and need to know what licensing or consents may be required? We want to help you understand the compliance requirements to get you started.

The Business Start-up team has been set up to help you with the big picture in establishing your new business requirements.

The team has specialist staff trained in licensing, building and planning, available to meet every Wednesday afternoon between 1pm and 2pm.

To make an appointment, complete our online Business start-up meeting form.

A member of the team will confirm your booking by phone or email.

See all business licenses and permits.

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Research and development grants

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Kāpiti businesses have access to Callaghan Innovation research and development grants through the WellingtonNZ (formerly WREDA). There are three types of grants:

R&D growth grants - Designed to increase R&D investment in businesses that already have a strong track record of R&D spending in New Zealand.

R&D project grants - Designed to support greater investment in R&D activities by businesses with less established R&D programmes.

R&D student grants - Designed to help New Zealand undergraduate and postgraduate students develop their technical skills in a commercial research environment.

WellingtonNZ

Training support

You can also apply for support to grow your businesses and may qualify for a New Zealand Trade and Enterprise training voucher. The vouchers pay for up to half the cost of training courses and coaching for owners, operators and managers.

See what you might be eligible for. Or to find out more, contact WellingtonNZ (formerly WREDA).

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Shared workspaces

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Work from the coast a few days a week or start your business here. There are shared workspaces in Kāpiti that could benefit your business.

Kāpiti Collective is a 24/7 co-working space in Paraparaumu Beach. Work with other professionals, consultants and business owners. Meeting rooms as well as private phone and Skype rooms. Wifi and power included.

Business mentors

Business Mentors New Zealand, founded in 1991, is the only independent national business mentoring service provider to the small business sector in New Zealand. The service matches experienced business people, the Mentors, with small business owners.

You can get help from an experienced businessperson who can offer you guidance, act as a sounding board, challenge your thinking and provide you with an independent and fresh perspective. Business Mentors New Zealand can match you with a volunteer mentor for up to 12 months. Find out more and apply on the link below or ring +64 4 470 9940.

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Updated 3 May 2024