BGEM Apply for a placeApply
← Back to BGEM

Problems we solve

Eight problems NZ business owners need help with in 2026.

In the words an owner might use. If one of these sounds like you, you are not the only one carrying it.

A practical synthesis of current research, rather than a ranked survey.

01

Cash flow uncertainty

“I’m doing the work, but the money isn’t arriving when I need it.”

Owners need help getting paid sooner, anticipating shortfalls and managing commitments.

EvidenceAuckland Chamber’s mid-year survey found 48% reported fewer customers paying on time.

02

Finding and winning enough customers

“I need a reliable flow of business, not another burst of activity that goes nowhere.”

The need is clearer positioning, stronger sales conversations and consistent follow-up.

EvidenceConsumer confidence and demand were the leading concern in the Auckland Chamber survey.

03

Protecting profit as costs rise

“I’m working hard, but there’s too little left over.”

Owners need help with pricing, margins and deciding which work is actually worth taking.

EvidenceMBIE’s 2026 report found 80% experienced increased running costs and 58% reported declining profitability, based on late-2025 responses.

04

Getting out of daily firefighting

“I’m so busy keeping the business running that I never get time to improve it.”

The practical need is simpler systems, better delegation and protected planning time.

EvidenceReducing administration costs or time was a goal for 57% of businesses in MBIE’s report.

05

Using AI and technology with confidence

“I know these tools could help. I don’t know where to start or what’s worth paying for.”

Owners need practical applications, support and a clear return on investment.

EvidenceMBIE identifies affordability, skills and choosing the right tools as barriers to digital adoption.

06

Getting the right skills into the business

“I can’t keep being the person who knows and does everything.”

The need includes developing staff, accessing specialists and clarifying responsibilities.

EvidenceTechnology capability is one specific gap: 29% of businesses in the 2026 Shaping Business Study could not find someone with the right skills to support digital upskilling.

07

Deciding when and how to grow

“Do I invest, hire and expand, or protect what I’ve already built?”

Owners need realistic scenarios, clear priorities and investment criteria.

EvidenceThe Reserve Bank reports that smaller firms more often face borrowing costs or lending terms they find unacceptable.

08

Carrying difficult decisions alone

“I need someone I can talk to honestly, who understands what’s at stake.”

Owners need trusted challenge, perspective and accountability.

A note on this oneThis is a coaching interpretation of the pressures above, rather than a measured survey ranking.

Where BGEM fits

Owners bring a business problem into the room. They also bring the weight of having to solve it alone.

That is what the room is for: twelve owners, one real decision on the table, honest questions, and one thing you commit to do.

You don’t need more advice.
You need people to think with.

The invitation

Don’t make every important decision alone.

The right room changes the quality of the decisions you make. Tell us about your business and your city, and Eugene will be in touch to arrange a confidential conversation.

Twelve seats to a room