BCC & ANZ New Zealand Collaboration Takes Innovation Global

7 December 2011

Collaboration with ANZ New Zealand Takes Innovation Global

A local collaboration between ANZ New Zealand and the BCC is set to give Manawatu start up businesses an international advantage.

The two organisations recently signed a partnership agreement in which ANZ will support the BCC’s programmes to foster start up businesses and progress technology initiatives with commercial potential.

ANZ will also be a key corporate partner of the BCCled “Innovate 2012” competition, which aims to dramatically increase and encourage entrepreneurial activity and identify projects and people with commercial drive and potential in the Manawatu region.

The partnership will also give entrepreneurs access to ANZ’s huge international networks, says Dean Tilyard, CEO of the BCC.

“Connections play a big part in the ultimate success of businesses,” he says. “This partnership means we’re able to give Manawatu businesses access to significant international contacts and expertise, and it is going to take our ability to give advice and support to a whole new level. That is great for startup businesses, and to help foster innovation.”

Fred Ohlsson, Managing Director Business Banking at ANZ New Zealand, says the bank has a strong commitment to the Manawatu, and to the work the BCC does to help foster local entrepreneurs.

“We’re looking forward to helping local businesses make global connections. ANZ is across 32 countries, including the growth markets of India, China, and Southeast Asia.

“We have significant expertise and networks internationally as well as our strong domestic position here in New Zealand. A little company in Palmerston North can be a world leader, and we can help facilitate their success.”

Steve Davey, Regional Manager Business Banking at ANZ has been involved with the BCC since its inception.

“I believe that if our region is going to grow, the BCC is going to be the catalyst for that. That is why we are delighted to be able to open up our expertise and contact network to their clients,” says Steve Davey. “We specialise in helping businesses get started and grow. In the past four years we’ve helped 20.000 people in New Zealand start their own business.”

The BCC offer management support and mentoring for startup businesses; raise investment funding to shape and grow startup businesses and facilitate the commercialisation of new technology to the market.

ENDS

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