A government-backed training initiative is delivering real results for Bay of Plenty
businesses.

The Tauranga Business Chamber’s ‘One:Some’ training workshops are proving popular with small and medium-sized businesses across the region looking to improve productivity, strengthen strategy, and make the most of new technologies.

Oasis Engineering is among those benefiting from the workshops – which focus on practical business skills including digital marketing and AI.

Managing Director, Kevin Flint, says after a downturn in business the company decided to focus more on marketing and innovation.

“We decided to invest more in our website and digital marketing, including Google Ads,” says Kevin.

“The Chamber’s workshops were very useful because they gave us a much better
understanding of where our marketing spend is going, and helped members of our team build the confidence to write their own ad campaigns.”

Kevin says the AI Business Essentials Masterclass was another standout session, helping his team explore how artificial intelligence could be safely integrated into the business.

“The workshop gave us a good overview and the key takeaway was to have a company policy around AI use. We’re now developing our own AI strategy and looking at how to use these tools without risking confidential information.”

Chamber Head of Growth and Innovation, Roz Irwin, says the Chamber’s goal is to ensure Bay of Plenty businesses have the confidence and capability to thrive.

“Businesses are walking away from these workshops ready to implement what they’ve learned,” she says.

“That’s leading to real outcomes, improved productivity, better financial performance, and sustainable growth.”

Roz says the One:Some workshops make capability training more accessible and cost-effective for businesses, and the approach has been well received.

“The model allows us to reach more business owners at once and offers great value for money while ensuring they still achieve tangible outcomes.

“With up to 10 people per session, participants not only gain expert knowledge but also peer support from others facing similar challenges.”

One:Some workshops were introduced by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment through the Regional Business Partnership, and are delivered locally through the Tauranga Business Chamber.

For information on upcoming One:Some workshops, visit www.tauranga.org.nz