New Zealand’s SME support system is full of good intentions, but is it delivering what SME owners need in 2025? Many report a fragmented, confusing experience that leaves them feeling unsupported. In this first article of our Rethinking SME Support series, we explore how a more connected, collaborative and  values-driven ecosystem could better serve our vital SME community. It’s time to evolve the system — and the conversation starts here.

SMEs are the lifeblood of New Zealand’s economy — but too much of the current support system remains out of step with what these businesses really need to thrive. In this article, we explore why a shift toward a more connected, regenerative support system is urgently needed — and how it could better reflect the true diversity of Aotearoa’s SME community.

What do the world’s best SME support systems have in common and how can New Zealand learn from them? In this article, we explore six global pillars of SME support, from trusted advisory relationships to flexible finance, capability building, and cross-sector collaboration. The key takeaway: great support systems put relationships first, not programmes first — a lesson Aotearoa would do well to embrace.

New Zealand’s SME support system doesn’t need to start from scratch, there are proven global innovations we can adapt. In this article, we explore practical ideas from around the world, including trust-based advisory models, smarter finance, embedded capability building and seamless navigation, all aimed at building a stronger, more human-centred SME support ecosystem for Aotearoa.

New Zealand’s SME support system has strengths — but also significant gaps. In this article, we explore what’s working well today, where the biggest gaps lie, what SME owners are asking for, and what’s needed to evolve the system into something more connected, equitable and regenerative.

If we want an SME support system that truly serves Aotearoa’s diverse business community, where should we begin? In this article, we outline six priority areas to create early momentum, including collaboration-first approaches, trusted advisory capacity, smarter finance, equity-first design and embedding regenerative thinking throughout the system.

The Rethinking SME Support series explored why NZ’s SME support system must evolve, global lessons worth adapting, and priorities for change. This final article reflects on what we’ve learned — and outlines what’s coming next: a deeper dive into how Central & Local Government, Economic Development Agencies, Chambers and Business Associations can collaborate to build a more regenerative and connected SME support system.