Business Grants for NZ Businesses

Running a business can be a challenge. Whether you’re just starting with a single product, trying new innovations or riding out the challenges of your industry, having the right support can go a long way. That’s where business grants can come in useful, offering help to take your small business to the next level. 

With small businesses (20 employees or less) making up 97% of New Zealand businesses, it’s important to keep them growing and thriving. We’ve collected the grants available to businesses in New Zealand, so you can get an idea of what is on offer. Our selection includes stipends for business training, startup costs and research and development.

What is a business grant?

A business grant is a sum of money that is given to your business with no expectations of repayment. Grants are generally organised through funds allocated by the Government or from companies and charities. 

While a grant isn’t expected to be repaid, often the money will come with some strings attached, such as rules around how it is spent and what it is spent on. You should be able to show results from the grant and use the money in a way that moves your business forward.

Who is eligible for business grants in New Zealand?

Anyone who runs a business in New Zealand may be eligible for a business grant. They may need to have their company listed on the New Zealand Companies Register, and it can be helpful to have a defined plan for the future of the business, so that those allocating the grants can understand the way ahead.

From that point, the grants tend to apply to two distinct groups – entrepreneurs in the initial stages of establishing a company or business owners whose company is already up and running. The grants available to each group differ based on their requirements. 

How much money can you get from small business grants?

The amount of money you can receive varies. Some startup grants can cover expenses that reach five figures, while others cover small expenses, such as business training days. As mentioned, money from grants is given to be used purposefully, so it will only cover what your business needs and no more. 

The Regional Business Partner Network 

If you’re looking for a business grant in New Zealand, you’ll likely be directed to the Regional Business Partner (RBP) Network as the first port of call. While you can apply directly to many of the grants listed below, the network can link you up with the one that best suits your business. 

This network is funded by the New Zealand Government and is made up of 15 regional agencies throughout the country. Once you reach out, you’ll be connected with local partners who can guide you through free support and advice. 

Current business grants 

Even if your business is going well, it’s likely you’ll find areas where you could improve, or where some support would go a long way. That’s where the following grants could be useful in building your capabilities and growing for the future.

Management Capability Funding by Regional Business Partner Network

If you’re a business owner who would benefit from increasing your skill set, the Regional Business Partner Network can support you with co-funded training. Training is available in many areas, from business planning to capital raising and governance. To get started, you’ll need to speak to a Growth Advisor through RBP and they’ll be able to take you through the application program.

Government investments by Kānoa

Kānoa (also known as the Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit) offers government investment in New Zealand’s regions. Their projects generally sit outside the main city hubs, to try to boost organisations throughout the country. 

The focus of Kānoa tends to vary but currently they’re focused on infrastructure projects. Their Regional Infrastructure Fund is open for relevant regional New Zealand organisations to apply. 

Not-for-profit grants by the Rātā Foundation

If you’re running a not-for-profit organisation currently supporting people in the Canterbury, Nelson and Marlborough regions, you may be eligible for a grant from the Rātā Foundation. These grants are designed to help cover operating costs or community projects, so that not-for-profits can focus on supporting those in need and making a positive difference to New Zealand.

New to R&D grant by Callaghan Innovation

Callaghan Innovation is the New Zealand Government’s Innovation Agency, supporting businesses in coming up with new and exciting ideas. Their grants cover the area of research & development (R&D) so that businesses can take the time they need to develop their R&D capability. The New to R&D Grant is a popular choice for start-ups and offers training and finance to support R&D work. 

Ārohia Grants by Callaghan Innovation

The Ārohia Innovation Trailblazer Grant is targeted towards industry trailblazers who are bringing something new and unique to New Zealand. Since its launch in 2023, it’s handed out $21.4 million in grants, designed to help businesses bring their innovative creations to market. Applications for round three haven’t opened yet, but in the meantime, applications for the Ārohia Evidence Grant are open. This is the stepping stone to the Trailblazer Grant, offering up to $25,000 for evidence-gathering activities for innovative ideas. 

Co-funding by Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority 

If you’ve found yourself wishing your business could improve its energy efficiency and sustainability, there are options available to you.The Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority has a number of co-funding opportunities for businesses to support improving their energy usage, whether it’s bringing in new technology or reducing their carbon footprint. See all the current funds on offer here.

Tips for businesses applying for government grants

Applying for government grants doesn’t need to be tricky, but it can take some time and you don’t want to go through all the preparation, just to have an application turned down. As well as registering with the Regional Business Partner Network, make sure you’ve done the following steps for the best chance at success.

Tip 1 – Understand exactly what you need

It’s not enough to just want some extra cash in the bank account. What does your business truly need to flourish? This could be business skills training that you need to lift your game in the industry, such as in marketing, or it could be extra investment in new product development. If you’re brand new with a business concept, you could have a look at startup business grants as well.

Tip 2 – Have a business plan 

All government grants generally require you to have a business plan ready to show with each application. If you’re new to business planning, we have a guide here to get you started. If you’ve already got a plan, make sure it’s up to date and fits with what you’re applying for. Those assessing applications should be able to easily understand how the grant would fit with your aspirations for the future. 

Tip 3 – Make a strong business case

You need to prove to those assessing your application that the grant is truly needed. This is your chance to show your vision for the grant and how it will affect your business and your team for the future. Remember to keep the business case focused and effective. Your local Regional Business Partner should be able to help with the structure for this. 

Applying for a grant can seem intimidating, but you’ve got a better chance if you apply than if you don’t apply at all! Just keep your application focused – we’ve got some tips for that in our guide. 

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Find out how Employment Hero can support your small business and reach out to our team today.

The information in this article is current as at 30 October 2025, and has been prepared by Employment Hero Pty Ltd (ABN 11 160 047 709) and its related bodies corporate (Employment Hero). The views expressed in this article are general information only, are provided in good faith to assist employers and their employees, and should not be relied on as professional advice. Some information is based on data supplied by third parties. While such data is believed to be accurate, it has not been independently verified and no warranties are given that it is complete, accurate, up to date or fit for the purpose for which it is required. Employment Hero does not accept responsibility for any inaccuracy in such data and is not liable for any loss or damages arising directly or indirectly as a result of reliance on, use of or inability to use any information provided in this article. You should undertake your own research and seek professional advice before making any decisions or relying on the information in this article.