Building your panel of experts

An accountant can help you understand your finances, plan for growth and make informed business decisions.

Whether you're starting a business, growing an existing one or buying a franchise, an accountant can provide support when you need it. They can help you develop a business plan, prepare financial forecasts and assess whether your business model is viable for the future.

They can also help you better understand your expenses, cashflow, revenue and taxes, identifying opportunities to improve profitability and manage your finances more effectively. This can free up your time to focus on running your business.

If you're looking to raise capital, apply for finance or buy a business or franchise, an accountant can help you evaluate the financial outlook and prepare the information needed to support your decision-making.

• Search the CAANZ directory to find a qualified accountant with experience relevant to your business.
• Business.govt.nz can help you learn when professional financial advice may be useful, from starting and growing a business to seeking investment or managing financial challenges.

A lawyer can help protect your business, manage risk and give you confidence when making important business decisions.

You may need legal advice when buying or selling a business, protecting intellectual property, managing employment matters, negotiating leases or resolving disputes. Having a trusted lawyer in your network before issues arise can save time and reduce stress when legal support is needed.

Business lawyers can also provide guidance on contracts, commercial transactions, government regulations and taxation matters that may affect your business.

• The Community Law Centre can help you access free legal information and guidance on a wide range of business-related topics.
• Contact the Citizens Advice Bureau to find practical information and support when navigating legal or regulatory matters.
• Visit the New Zealand Law Society to check that a lawyer holds a current practising certificate and find information about legal services.

A business banking specialist can help you access the right banking solutions, funding options and financial expertise to support your business goals.

Whether you're just starting out, running an established business or planning for growth, they can work with you to understand your goals, identify opportunities and navigate challenges specific to your business.

If your business trades internationally, specialist support can help you make and receive foreign payments and manage foreign exchange risks. If you're investing in vehicles, equipment or property, they can also help you explore finance options designed to support those investments.

A business banking specialist can discuss banking products and services tailored to your needs, including business accounts, overdrafts, loans and term deposits.

• Connect with a specialist to discuss your business goals and banking needs.
• Learn about foreign payments, foreign exchange and international trade solutions.
• Explore funding options for vehicles, plant and equipment.
• Find out about finance solutions for property development, investment and refinancing.

When you're facing a challenge, pursuing growth or need specialist expertise, a business advisor can help you identify opportunities and make progress faster.

Business advisors often specialise in areas such as leadership, marketing, technology or industry-specific challenges. They can provide an independent perspective, help solve complex problems and support you in achieving your business goals.

If you need specialist support, an advisor can help you overcome obstacles, build capability and position your business for future growth.

• Use the Regional Business Partner Network to Connect with local business growth advisors and explore government-funded support, services and resources.