Short answer. This page is a route-map guide, not an eligibility assessment. Use it to decide which official source or adviser to check first.
Common SME funding routes
- RDTI for qualifying R&D activity
- New to R&D or student R&D grants where capability is the issue
- NZTE or export support for international growth
- asset finance or bank lending for equipment
- Investment Boost or tax treatment for productive assets
- sector support for food, primary, healthtech, energy, games or manufacturing
What to clarify first
- what the money is for
- how much is needed
- whether there is a defined project
- whether the business can co-fund
- whether the need is cash, advice, tax treatment, export support or capital
When grants are weak-fit
Grants may be weak-fit where the business needs general cashflow, debt restructuring, ordinary marketing, working capital or an undefined project.
Best next step
Start with a pathway report, then check official sources and speak with the relevant adviser.
Official sources to check
Sources and review status
Last reviewed: June 2026.
Official sources checked: IRD, MBIE, business.govt.nz, NZTE, NZGCP, EECA and MPI, as relevant.
NZ Funding Pathways is a free resource funded by PH Capital Advisory.
General information only. Check the current official source and speak with the relevant adviser before acting.
This page provides general information only. It does not provide tax, accounting, legal, financial, investment or eligibility advice, and it does not guarantee funding.