It's never too late for a great idea.

 ‘PRIMETIME’ is a Senior Enterprise Programme aimed at empowering and supporting entrepreneurs aged 50 and over who are looking to start or scale up their business ventures. In autumn 2023, the Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce was pleased to deliver the pilot in our region. If you are interested in being part of the second intake (winter 2024) please send an expression of interest via our 'Contact' page. Funding for the second intake is still to be confirmed.

As the median age of our population rises, it is recognised that more and more people are embracing the second half of their lives with plenty of life experience, enthusiasm, and great ideas. This unique programme will provide these entrepreneurs with the tools and resources they need to turn their business ideas into reality, including:

  • One-on-one mentorship from experienced business leaders
  • Access to a network of successful entrepreneurs and industry experts
  • Educational resources and training sessions on topics such as marketing, finance, and business planning
  • Connection to local business organisations by automatically becoming a member of the Nelson/Tasman Chamber of Commerce

You have a business in its early stages, or it’s just a brilliant idea and you need some extra skills and knowledge to progress it into something amazing.  You can apply even if you have started a business before, there is no limit to the number of brilliant ideas that someone can have in their lifetime.

There is no upper age limit.

Sorry, if you’re under 50 you’re going to have sit this one out.

Starting a business after 50

Today, a person in their early 50s may only be two-thirds of the way through their anticipated life span. So as they age, they're asking, 'How do I want to spend the later third of my life?'

Tari Kaumātua, the Office for Seniors.

Tari Kaumātua, the Office for Seniors is working to improve the lives of older people across New Zealand by providing information, promoting the wellbeing and concerns of older people and increasing awareness of the issues facing our ageing population.

Better Work in Later Life

Evidence-based resources supporting older people to engage in the workforce and for businesses to realise the benefits of Aotearoa New Zealand's ageing population.