The performance of these small firms is crucial to driving economic growth. Their creativity and innovation is one of the reasons why they are called “the engine room of growth”.

BusinessNZ’s regional associations – EMA, Business Central, Business Canterbury and Business South – are the key contact points for small firms. Their feedback forms a crucial part of our advocacy and policy work on behalf of the small business sector.

Achieving a business environment that helps small firms grow is a prime goal of BusinessNZ’s advocacy. We speak on their behalf to make sure their interests are being heard, and to maintain the best possible relationships with government officials and decision makers. Katherine Rich regularly speaks to conferences of small businesses to update them from the coalface of political change, and to get their feedback, ideas and concerns.