Reach Our Team
The New Zealand Small Business Assistance Centre helps entrepreneurs access information about New Zealand government grants and loans. Use the channels below to speak with an advisor about funding options for your business.
Other Ways to Find Funding Information
Before getting in touch, you may find what you need through these self-service resources:
- Grant Finder — search through 201 government funding programmes.
- Funding In Your Region — browse programmes available in Auckland, Wellington, Canterbury, Otago, Marlborough, West Coast, and other regions.
- Browse by Industry — filter funding opportunities by business sector.
- Grant Programmes — review funding types including one-time grants, equity financing, low-interest loans, guaranteed loans, and tax credits.
- FAQ — answers to common questions about applications and eligibility.
Office Hours & Response Times
Calls to 0800 141 461 are answered during standard New Zealand business hours. Email enquiries are reviewed in the order they are received, and a member of our team will respond with information about programmes that may suit your situation.
| Channel | Best for |
|---|---|
| Phone (0800 141 461) | Quick questions and guided support |
| Email (alexandra@nzfundinggrants.org) | Detailed questions, career enquiries, written follow-up |
Navigating government funding opportunities can feel complex for small business owners who are juggling day-to-day operations. Understanding the categories of support available helps owners identify which programmes might align with their stage of growth, sector, and immediate needs. A clear overview of grants, loans, and advisory services provides a useful starting point for planning next steps toward securing financial assistance.
Eligibility requirements vary widely between funding programmes, and many emphasise factors such as business size, industry focus, regional location, and the intended use of capital. Applicants are typically expected to demonstrate how the requested funding will contribute to measurable outcomes, whether through job creation, productivity improvements, innovation, or expansion into new markets. Reviewing criteria carefully before applying improves the chances of a successful submission.
Preparing a strong application often begins with a well-structured business plan and realistic financial projections. Funding bodies generally look for evidence that the business understands its market, has a feasible growth strategy, and can responsibly manage public or concessional funds. Supporting documents such as cash flow forecasts, milestone descriptions, and risk assessments can strengthen the overall presentation.
Beyond financial support, many assistance programmes connect recipients with training, mentoring, and professional advice. These complementary resources help owners build capability in areas like marketing, exporting, digital adoption, and operational efficiency. Engaging with such services alongside grant funding can amplify long-term impact and improve the sustainability of newly developed business activities.
Regional development initiatives often focus on stimulating local economies by supporting businesses in areas such as agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and emerging technology sectors. By targeting funding toward regionally identified priorities, these programmes aim to encourage diversification, strengthen supply chains, and create meaningful employment opportunities for communities across the country.
About This Centre
The New Zealand Small Business Assistance Centre is a resource hub for New Zealand small business owners seeking government grants, loans, and funding programmes. We provide tools, guides, and contact pathways to help entrepreneurs identify financing options suited to their industry, region, and business needs.