Puna Pakihi — Kickstart Grant

Before you apply

Read this before you start. Ngāi Tahu’s business grants page says Puna Pakihi funding is currently closed while the programme and future delivery model are reviewed, with no date confirmed for reopening. Their own Find an Opportunity page still shows these three as open. Ring or email before building a business plan for a round that is not taking applications. A maximum of two Kickstart Grants per whānau member, and only one grant of any kind every 12 months. Already trading is a real requirement — an idea alone does not qualify, though Puna Pakihi offers mentoring and a Lean Canvas template at that stage. Applies to all three. The pūtea is for investments that create efficiencies, grow the customer base, or directly increase income or net profit. It cannot cover regular operational or personal expenses, or anything ongoing and disposable that is not tied to measurable growth. Apply through Te Kopa Ora using your whakapapa registration number. You need a business plan, financial forecasts, proof of Ngāi Tahu ownership, bank verification dated within the last three months for the business account unless you are a sole trader, proof of ID and official quotes. Any earlier grant must have its reporting and receipts submitted and approved before you can apply again. Processing runs 4 to 6 weeks. Only Ngāi Tahu-owned pakihi — Ngāi Tahu themselves point non-Ngāi Tahu businesses to Poutama Trust and Māori Women’s Development Inc.