Latest news with #CluthaDevelopment
Otago Daily Times
2 days ago
- 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.
Otago Daily Times
19-06-2025
- Health
- Otago Daily Times
‘Every little thing you do helps'
Otago Student Army volunteers clean flood debris from fencing on a farm near Owaka in October last year. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED Clutha has plenty to celebrate during this year's National Volunteer Week, which runs until Saturday. Non-profit group Clutha Development (CD) assists the district council and the community in recognising the generosity of volunteers, and the district's dependence on them. "Through the Clutha District Volunteer Network, Clutha Development is helping build stronger, more connected communities," CD community projects facilitator Kristin Aarts said. "We recognised a need, and set out to get to learn more about community groups and how to help them reach out to people to volunteer, and how to put those people in touch with the kind of group they want to work with. "This National Volunteer Week, we're celebrating the locals who make a difference by stepping up, lending a hand, and helping our district thrive." Among the region's notable volunteers are the network behind Clutha Budget Advisory Service and individuals including Allister Body and Robbie Finlayson, both of Tapanui. Robbie Finlayson has volunteered for Kidzway from the beginning. Allister Body has been on the board of West Otago Health for 15 years. Mr Body has been an integral part of the West Otago Health medical centre since 2010. "After 15 years, volunteering isn't something I consciously choose any more — it's simply part of how we live," he said. "I could spend my time elsewhere [but] in our community, the clubs, events, and opportunities that enrich our lives are built and maintained by volunteers. "So for me, giving my time to West Otago Health feels like doing my part to keep that spirit alive. "It's about contributing to the kind of community I want my family to grow up in — one where people show up for each other." Robbie Finlayson has volunteered countless hours of expertise to Kidzway Early Learning Centre since it opened in 2008. "[It's been] a great way to get to know a wide range of people, many of whom have become lifelong friends. I have certainly learnt a lot of new skills along the way, but best of all it's knowing every little thing you do helps someone else." The network also has the reach to source volunteers from beyond Clutha, such as Otago Student Army, who marched out in force to help clear flood debris in the Catlins late last year. Clutha District Council held the annual community service awards at Te Pou Ō Mata-Au, Clutha District War Memorial and Community Centre in Balclutha last night to encourage the spirit of community generosity by highlighting and rewarding some of the area's most dedicated volunteers.
Otago Daily Times
30-05-2025
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
Agriculture bolstering economy
Clutha Development chief executive Linda Moore. Photo: supplied Anticipated record dairy payouts are helping Clutha's economy buck the national downward trend, new figures show. Regional development organisation Clutha Development has released the latest economic results for the district, which show a strong agricultural sector bolstering modest overall growth. Infometrics' Quarterly Economic Monitor showed economic activity in Clutha rising by 0.5% in the year to March 2025, outperforming the national economy, which shrank by 1.1%. This was underpinned by a record forecast dairy payout for 2024-25. The dairy sector is expected to inject $434 million into the local economy — an increase of $103m on last season. Meat prices are also contributing to rural confidence, as lamb and beef prices rise 10% and 15% respectively. Clutha Development chief executive Linda Moore said the report reflected the underlying strength of the district's primary industries. ''This quarter's results show Clutha is in a strong position. Our rural sector continues to perform, and we're seeing confidence return to the housing market and resilience in our local labour force.'' Despite subdued conditions nationally, Clutha's employment grew by 0.4% during the past year, while the national average fell by 0.9%. The local unemployment rate sits at just 2.4% — less than half the national figure of 4.9% — reflecting the district's continuing tight labour market. There were also signs of recovery in Clutha's housing market. House values rose 4% during the past year to an average of $327,557, supported by a 16% increase in sales volumes. And while Ms Moore said tourism and consumer spending were areas to watch, the fundamentals of Clutha's economy remained strong. Consumer spending was down 3% for the year, against a 1.4% drop nationally, although the latest quarter showed this to be easing. Tourism growth had started to ''dry up'' nationally — Clutha's tourism spend dropping by 4% to $97m against zero change nationally. ''We know households are being cautious, but there are clear signs of stability and even optimism. ''We're well placed to make the most of future opportunities, particularly as interest rates ease and confidence grows.'' Clutha Development is conducting its annual business confidence survey now. ''While the statistics tell a positive story, we're keen to hear directly from our local business community. Their insights will help us understand how the national trends are translating into day-to-day experiences here in the district.'' She said Clutha Development continued to work with local businesses and industry groups to ''build resilience and support growth''.
