You might have a great business idea that could change the world and make you millions.

Then again, you could be a small business owner wanting to learn more about the essential skills you’ll need in the marketplace.

If you’re in either category, The Certificate of Small Business and Projects Management at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa in Taupō, which is taking enrolments for 2020, can help you.

Kaiako Heather Sharplin (Ngāi Tahu) says the 36-week programme is for people wanting to develop their fledgling ideas into sustainable and profitable businesses or to improve their overall business management.

“The main takeaway from the course is the writing of a really comprehensive business plan. You find out whether your idea is any good and if it will work,” she says.

Heather owns The Yoga Tree Taupō and says the course suits those at the seed stage of their business to the self-employed needing upskilling.

“First of all, it’s for someone who has a business idea who wants to develop that idea and find out if it’s any good.”

“It’s also for someone who could’ve been running their business for a few years but wants to upskill because they don’t know anything about marketing, book keeping or human resources.”
“The third person is someone who is managing a business and has the ability to make decisions about the business. It’s a business management qualification but in order to complete the programme you have to survey your potential customers and you’d need to be in a position to do that.”

The course, which starts in early March, covers business and project planning, industry and market analysis, customer service and human resources management.

It takes an in-depth look at accounting and finance and includes marketing and a review of students’ business projects.

“This (programme) is real life practical experience, delivered in a way you can relate to,” says Heather.

Enrol now by contacting Te Wānanga o Aotearoa on 0800 355 553 or go to our website www.twoa.ac.nz.