Networking with Local Businesses event with KAREN BLAIR from CEDA

Karen Blair Regional Business Advisor at the Central Economic Development Agency was the speaker at last
month’s event.

Karen has been giving advice for over 4 years and brings with her vast experience in banking and self-
employment.

It was good to find out that before you start a business, you need a strong business plan and most importantly
you need to have passion, drive and a clear vision of how you want your business to look. Her presentation
was full of tips and tricks for those thinking of starting out. It was very clear that CEDA is committed to helping
local businesses succeed.

Our guests were able to browse through local businesses’ promotional material at the entrance and also enjoy
the Russian biscuits made by NSMM member Diana. We are planning to get more businesses involved in
these evening. If you would like your business promoted please give us your business promotional materials
(name card, prospects, and flyers).

At every event there are spot prizes to win. This time the lucky winners were Caius and Allen both international
students who arrived in Palmerston North three months ago.

At the end of the event guests and members were mixing and mingling while enjoying yummy nibbles from the
Sri Lankan traditional cuisine organised by our member Himani.

If your community would like to introduce your national food at our events please contact us.