Challenge to Allocate "Free Money"

With a significant increase in the amount of money available in Otago for industry and regional business projects, there is concern the $1.1m available might not be fully spent within the coming year.

The Council's Economic Development Unit (EDU) and Otago Forward are promoting two funds designed to help support feasibility studies and other projects that have the potential to offer economic benefit to the city and region. Projects that have received support recently from these funds include the Strath-Taieri Irrigation Project and the investigation of a Chinese tourism trail across Otago.

Peter Harris, EDU Manager, says that he is keen to ensure that groups or individuals with potential projects contact the Unit, or their local Council, if from outside Dunedin.

"Offering people 'free money' might seem like an easy task but the challenge is often about turning ideas into collaboration", Mr Harris said. "While the funding can cover a significant proportion of the costs, there is still a need for people to commit their own money and time to the project."

Clive Geddes, chair of Otago Forward, which administers the Regional Strategy Fund, adds that with Government choosing to end this specific fund in June 2010, there is pressure to flush out good projects.

"The Government decision means Otago has access to more than $500,000 so now is the time to float ideas on how we work together for the benefit of the region. Our focus is not about spending the money for its own sake, but spending it wisely to help our region grow", he said.

One meeting in Dunedin has already attracted 70 people wanting to know more about the industry and regional funding, and another meeting is scheduled for 16 July.

Anyone interested is urged to contact the Economic Development Unit for more information.

Contact details

Contact Peter Harris, Manager, Economic Development Unit on 474 3463.

Last reviewed: 10 Jul 2009 4:00pm