BMNZ chief executive Ray Schofield says the not-for-profit organisation’s figures for the June quarter show an increase in demand for their services in many parts of the country, with overall demand well up on last year. “There is still lot of distress out there among small businesses, especially in Canterbury and the Pike River area. There are also older businesses, some who have been trading for 20 years or more, being affected by cash flow and collection difficulties and the domino effect of economic disturbances which have been running right through the SME sector. Small business just doesn’t have the resources to carry that sort of burden indefinitely.
“Winter can be hard for trade and is our time of highest use. In turn we are trying to support our mentors many of whom have been affected themselves and yet still give support to others. The Government has put in extra support with 20 more field advisors and we have had some much needed support from organisations such as TRN and new sponsors like Sovereign Insurance and IAG.”
Business Mentors provides access to 1700 volunteer mentors (who provide their experience, skill and knowledge free of charge). The focus of the organisation is on developing capability, profitability, and employment generation. Since the organisation was established in 1991, Business Mentors has assisted over 57,000 small to medium sized businesses. It is funded largely by patrons from the private sector, with additional support from New Zealand Trade and Enterprise.
For more information on Business Mentors New Zealand, visit www.businessmentors.org.nz or contact Ray Schofield, 0274 735 435 or 09 523 0110.
