05-08-2025
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
Funds for budding entrepreneurs
Clutha Development economic development manager Sarah Hayward is encouraging South Otago entrepreneurs to access the organisation's new microgrants scheme to kick-start their business idea. PHOTO: RICHARD DAVISON
Officials hope a new "microgrant" scheme will help unearth South Otago's hidden entrepreneurs.
Regional development organisation Clutha Development is making available grant funding ranging from $500 to $1500 to individuals or groups hoping to progress early-stage business ideas in the district.
Project spokeswoman Clutha Development economic development manager Sarah Hayward said the scheme was part of a drive to form an "entrepreneurial network" in the district.
"Our goal is to encourage people in the Clutha District to take action on those ideas that have been sitting in the back of their minds. Sometimes, all it takes is a small push to get moving — and that is what a microgrant is designed to provide."
She said the scheme had already received applications despite only launching last week.
"It's easy to apply online, and applicants will also have the opportunity to access activator sessions, in partnership with COIN South, the Southland business incubator."
Activator sessions could provide guidance and practical support to help applicants shape their ideas, and prepare strong applications, she said.
The scheme had been inspired by Start Up Dunedin's microgrant programme, which ran earlier this year.
"Start Up Dunedin have shared their experiences in setting up their scheme, and really showed us how powerful these small grants can be for grassroots innovation."
Ms Hayward said the grants could be used for a wide range of purposes.
"It could be anything related to fostering a new business idea, for example prototype development, branding or market research. It's there to help get you over your first hurdle."
Grants were "no-strings-attached", and no business equity was taken.
She said she hoped the scheme would provide "real momentum" for locals with promising business ideas.
"Entrepreneurialsm helps diversify the local economy, foster economic growth and create vibrancy within a community, setting off a snowball effect.
"We want to unearth the entrepreneurs out there, including those who perhaps don't think of themselves as entrepreneurs. It's for anybody with ideas, passion and motivation."
Full criteria can be found at Applications close on September 8.
