Stuart Ayres, Chair of the Kapiti Economic Development Association gave an online presentation to members to explain KEDA's role in the economic development of Kapiti's economy.  Stuart thinks there is tremendous synergy between and KEDA and Kapiti Rotary, as we share a similar purpose -"serving our community", Kapiti's thriving business eco system and economic wellbeing.
KEDA was started by Rotary member and past President Liz Koh in 2017 to "address our economic issues and leverage our District’s assets and opportunities, to accelerate progress towards our shared vision for Kapiti" and that by 2020, KEDA would be a full blown independent economic development agency. Liz and other volunteer colleagues was concerned that there was insufficient leadership and collaboration among the business community and with the local authority and regional economic development agency. Liz & co. went on to become instrumental in the development of the district's economic development and implementation plan 2020-2023, and the formation of the independent  Economic Development Kotahitanga Board formed by the council to implement the strategy.
KEDA plays a lead role in the plan to......
 
 
  • Develop a business investment and support matching programme to support the growth and establishment of businesses in the district, and a partner role with other agencies to
  • Support existing and emerging projects that will deliver immediate near-term economic benefits to Kapiti
  • Develop in partnership with our older persons and industry a programme that offers opportunities…
  • Advocate for improved transport infrastructure…incl. electrification to Otaki
  • Support the development and ongoing growth of industry led groups.   
Today KEDA has a network of advisers, professionals, business owners and other parties interested in Kapiti's growth and a vibrant business eco system.
It's primary focus is now upon actively supporting entrepreneurs, start ups and existing businesses looking to grow /move to the next level,  review their business model, merge or acquire or plan for succession.
It does this drawing on its network to provide a Mentor service; KickStart Kapiti innovators event; Startup Kapiti on line programme for startups to self assess and develop their investment readiness; workshops; lunch'n learn sessions; business health check and professional adviser triage service from the KEDA Business Hub at Kapiti Airport. It is presently working with a party to co run an awards programme for Start Ups looking to receive more intensive professional and marketing support;,  and another party for more intensive workshops. KEDA and has just established a COVID Business Support network where members volunteer to assist business owners experiencing issues from COVID.
More about KEDA's initiatives and how to join as member ($25 p.a.-free until 31.3.22) or Mentor are on it's fabulous new SEO optimised website (where members can profile their businesses and participate in forums).