Off the back of a challenging few years for Kiwi small businesses, it’s clear they deserve some support to help gear their business up for success in the future.
Xero is giving businesses in the Bay of Plenty and across Aotearoa the opportunity to earn their share of more than NZ$80,000 country-wide, in the form of the latest initiative – Xero Beautiful Business Fund.
The fund is diversified across four separate categories, and entries should be in the form of a 90-second video submission, giving Xero customers a chance at NZ$20,000 per category entered.
Submissions are judged by myself and a panel of business leaders, with the winners of each category getting to compete on the global stage for a chance to win an extra NZ$50,000 in funding.
Here at Xero, we are committed to supporting small businesses – that’s why this fund has been designed to boost growth and help SMEs meet their ambitious goals.
The competition gives small business owners who are Xero customers, a fun and creative opportunity to open up about their business. This involves outlining how they would use the fund, how it would impact their business, and how it would support their long-term business goals.
There are four separate categories entries can be submitted in:
› Innovating for sustainability: This is for those wanting to take the next step in their sustainability journey. It could involve moving to more sustainable packaging, investing in energy-efficient equipment, or even opting for carbon-neutral transport.
› Trailblazing with technology: This category is for small businesses seeking to innovate. This could focus on digitalising aspects of the business and its operations or integrating new emerging technologies.
› Strengthening community connection: This addresses small businesses and nonprofits endeavouring to give back to the community. Whether that be contributing to philanthropy, social good, or making an impact on the community in a meaningful way.
› Upskilling for the future: This category assists small businesses seeking to support upskilling for either themselves or their employees. This could include access to training and other professional development opportunities.
There’s no limit on what businesses can apply for, so if you feel like your business fits into multiple categories and you want the best chance to succeed, don’t hesitate to enter more than once.
Entrants and winners of the Xero Beautiful Business Fund may have their video used in future communications and marketing materials from Xero, which is a brilliant opportunity for business exposure. There are some incredible and resilient small businesses in the Bay of Plenty region, and any one of them could have a shot at earning their share of this fund.
When small businesses succeed, Aotearoa succeeds, and as your trusted partner, we want to be with you on every step of the journey.
We hope with this offering, we can support Kiwi businesses so they can thrive in the future.
For more information on how to enter, visit www.xerobeautifulbusinessfund.com
