Small businesses are a driving force of the Māori economy and the Māori economy is critical to a thriving New Zealand. That’s why we’re excited to be back on the road in partnership with Whāriki Māori Business Network. We’ll be visiting seven locations across Aotearoa offering free digital skills education on how to use Facebook and Instagram to continue to grow, innovate, stay resilient through uncertain times, and connect with customers locally and globally.
We kicked off our first in-person Boost with Facebook workshop in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) yesterday and were joined by business owners ready to learn and grow their business. We met with small businesses, many whānau owned, looking to take the next step in their digital marketing journey, and we were thrilled with the enthusiasm and commitment by attendees.
Heta Hudson, Whāriki Chairperson, says “We know our business community are using Facebook and Instagram, especially our whānau businesses. Our recent nationwide survey of businesses in the Whāriki Māori Business Network showed that 86% of businesses used Facebook and/or Instagram to market their business, and 89% said that digital technologies have been important for their business since the start of COVID-19.”
Addressing the audience, Hon. Peeni Henare, MP for Tāmaki Makaurau, Minister of Defence and Minister for Whānau Ora shared his support for local business owners and commented on how digital tools can help support the Māori economy to stay resilient. “Today’s hui is one of those avenues that can help take Māori business to the world. Digital technologies are a tool that can allow you to grow your kaupapa and your business, and I hope that you all get an opportunity to engage with the kaupapa that has brought us here today, but also with one another.”