Crafty Business Resources

Each month we'll post a list of resources that are relevant to that month's specific session topic. This month we've compiled a list of websites, publications and services where you'll find more details and comprehensive reading on areas of business planning and business management that may have sparked your attention.

If you know of a website or book - on any business topic - that you think might be of interest to other crafty business people why not send us the link so we can share it around. Email your suggestions to: millie@pinkpaperpinafore.com

Online Resources

Business Steps: a practical guidebook for small business
A simple guide published by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, it's the perfect short but informative read for those starting out in business. This guide is a free downloaded from the link above.




New Zealand Trade and Enterprise Guide: Planning for Success
This is really as complete a guide to writing a business plan as you are likely to find anywhere. It's intentionally broad and aimed to be of value to everyone at any level of business, small or large. Its worth downloading as it provides an extremely comprehensive view of the things you'll want to consider and it includes lots of templates. Follow the link above to download this guide.







The Business and Employers area on the IRD website - don't forget that IRD are there to help you, even before you are actually in business. The Business and Employers section of their website has all you'll need to know about company structure, starting and running a business and or course their specialty area: the tax side of your business.





Business Information New Zealand - this site is the government business site. The information is designed specifically for small and medium-sized businesses and provides free access to a range of resources to help you start, manage and grow your business, as well as ways to deal with day-to-day challenges.

Books

* Indicates that the book is available from the Christchurch Public Library

Craft Inc.: Turn your creative hobby into a business - Meg Mateo Ilasco *

A great looking, recently published business primer for entrepreneurial crafters. It aims to help you turn what you're already doing for fun into what you do for a living.

Mastering the craft business: a guide for craft artists - Ann & Bob Phillips *

Another business primer but the distinct advantage of this book is that it is written in New Zealand by a couple based in Nelson. It was published in 1996 but the content remains relevant.

Crafting a business: make money doing what you love - Kathie Fitzgerald *

A guide to making your home based business a success. This book is aimed at women, in particular, stay at home mothers wanting to get a business up and running.

The global garage: home-based business in New Zealand - edited by Janet Sayers and Nanette Monin *

General issues for home-based businesses with examples from people who are operating creative businesses from their homes. There is an excellent chapter on managing you time while working from home.

The Martha Rules: 10 Essentials for Achieving Success as You Start, Build or Manage a Business - Martha Stewart *

Ok, so this book is a bit of wild card on the list but no matter what your feelings are about tax fraud Martha Stewart remains the undeniable queen of the crafty business. It's a quick, easy read and even if your ambitions aren't quite as lofty or global as Martha's you're sure to be at least a little bit inspired by her advice.

Other Services

The Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce (CECC) - are now operating the Business Enterprise Training workshops that use to be offered by the Canterbury Development Corporation (CDC). The workshops are aimed at upskilling the owners of small and medium sized enterprises and offer a range of great short training courses. Best of all, the training is fully funded by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise so the only cost to you is your time and energy!

Christchurch Small Business Enterprise Center - offer exceptionally reasonable hourly rates for business advice and accountancy services.