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Workshops

Workshops that will help your business evolve and thrive

Our workshops will grow your knowledge and skills so you can achieve your business goals - whether that is starting a new business, adapting to a changing environment or scaling your business.

Business Workshops

We understand that it can be tough being a business owner or entrepreneur. Sometimes you need a little bit of help to ensure you remain on track to meet your goals. We have created business-focused workshops that will enable your business to start, adapt and flourish.

Business Fundamentals

Who is this course for?

The course is aimed at start-up founders who are looking to launch their business and small business owners who are ready to take the next step.

How long is it?

This is an eight-week course (one evening per week) delivered in-person by trained Soda facilitators and business experts.

What does the course cover?

  • Setting goals, understanding limitations, and building customer personas
  • Competitor reviews, value proposition and brand positioning
  • Marketing: digital tools and building a marketing strategy
  • Business structures: legals, accounting and insurance
  • Financials: Understanding costs, pricing, and break-even
  • Financials: understanding the basics of cash flow and financial forecasting
  • How to pitch: pitch fundamentals and practice

What does it cost?

The cost is dependent on the number of participants, delivery method and location so if you are interested, please fill in the form below.

Buying a Business

Who is this course for?

If you’re considering business ownership but are unsure where to start, this workshop is designed for you. We’ll give you the basics in plain language, so you can make informed decisions about your business ownership future.

How long is it?

One two-hour workshop delivered in-person with support from experts Tabak, JH Law and Profinance.

Date: TBC, February 2025

Time: 5.30-7.30pm

Location: The Cafe, Wintec House, Hamilton

What does the course cover?

If you're thinking about buying a business but aren't sure where to start, this interactive workshop will guide you through the essentials of purchasing an existing business.

  • If business ownership is right for you
  • Pros and cons of buying an existing business
  • How to finance your venture
  • What to look for in a business (and red flags to avoid)
  • What legal considerations to you need to take into account throughout the process
  • How to make the business your own

What does it cost and how do I enrol?

We have a special introductory offer of $49 (usually $149). We'll share more details about how to enrol in early 2025.

Drop In Sessions

Who is this for?

These free drop in sessions at the University of Waikato's HIKO Hub are an opportunity for business owners and founders to drop in and chat to the Soda team about how we can help your business or startup.

When are the drop in sessions?

Every Wednesday from 9.30am-2.30pm.

Who can I talk to?

Each week one of our Business Growth Advisors or Innovation Specialists will be available to speak about the following:

  • 20 November - Callaghan Innovation
  • 27 November - Startup Aotearoa
  • 4 December - Callaghan Innovation
  • 11 December - Regional Business Partner network/funding
  • 18 December - Callaghan Innovation

Can I book a meeting?

Yes! You can book a 30-minute appointment between 9.30am - 12pm here or drop in anytime between 9.30am-2.30pm Wednesdays.

To find out more about our workshops, please complete the form below and one of the team will be in touch.

Workshops

What our students say

What our RISE UP 2022 winner said

Business Fundamentals gave me the confidence I needed to set up and run my own small business. The programme taught me new skills such as: how to manage finances, discovering who my customer/client was and what legal support I might need. A highlight of the course was networking with other people and learning from their experiences.

- Rebecca Foster, Edit Literacy

Start-Ups

Customised start-up support programmes for entrepreneurs in New Zealand.

Business Growth

We take small businesses away from today's issues and into tomorrow's opportunities.

Co-Working

Let us sort your workspace for you. Flexible options to reside in a comfortable space.