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Merino sheep - Source: NZPA / Ross Setford
Entrepreneurs in the rural sector have until July 31 to apply for funding of up to $100,000 each from the meat and wool industry board.
Meat and Wool New Zealand's manager of emerging markets Nick Beeby said ideal candidates for funding were market-driven, smaller wool initiatives from New Zealand grower groups and manufacturers with strong links to grower groups.
The funding sought by businesses from the wool enterprise programme must be matched 50:50 with funding from the applicant.
Beeby said the enterprise programme fitted with the board's goal of working with sheep and beef farmers to open up market opportunities and drive gains in profitability.
"Partnering is one of the smartest ways we can achieve the profitability outcomes our growers are looking for," he said.
The programme offered general business mentoring, skills development and help with accessing industry networks, but the focus was on improving returns to wool growers through developing general business capabilities, industry knowledge, and strategic and market planning skills.
Applicants need to demonstrate a point of difference from the primary routes to the market, through a particular technology, or scope to meet a niche market requirement, brand proposition, or product specification.
Applicants will have to show they are prepared to invest time, money and resources in the project.
