Building opportunities for SMEs in the Cook Islands

Earlier this year we extended our BLP services to the Cook Islands to support the growth of SMEs across the islands.

In this podcast, we are joined by Evelene Hayden, Vice President of Engagement for the Cook Islands Chamber of Commerce.

Evelene talks to us about the current business environment in the Cook Islands, and the role of the chamber in supporting SMEs.

Credits:

Hosted by: Barbara Wilkinson, BLP Professional Development Advisor

Recorded, mixed & edited by The Sudio

Music credit: Alex Khaskin via SoundVault

Business Link Pacific is a private-sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and the Cook Islands. 

For more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com 

Chapters

• 1:55 Tell us about the role of the Cook Islands Chamber of Commerce
• 5:15 Considering the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, what is the current business environment in the Cook Islands? Main issues and/or opportunities?
• 5:51 What advice do you have for SMEs adapting to the ‘new normal’?
• 8:25 What services do you offer small and medium-sized businesses in the Cook Islands? (Business Mentoring programme and Youth Enterprise Scheme)
• 11:18 Can you tell us about the Business Mentoring programme is this a free service you offer?
• 12:55 Can you tell us a little more about the Youth Enterprise Scheme
• 14:33 Can you share info about the upcoming training programmes you are implementing in partnership with BLP?
• 15:54 How do you envision your future working relationship with BLP?
• 16:40 What are the BLP services are the Chamber going to be offering?
• 17:25 Why do you think BLP is good for the Cook Islands?
• 18:05 What are the key challenges that businesses are facing right now in the Cook Islands
• 21:19 What is the best way to get in touch with the Chamber?