CEDA - Central Economic Development Agency

22/10/2026

CEDA connects people, place and business to unlock opportunity across Manawatū. Working alongside our partners, stakeholders and business community, we support business growth, advance the Manawatū Regional Food Strategy, drive progress on Te Utanganui, promote our region through Palmy & Manawatū, and attract investment that creates jobs and opportunities. Together, we're helping build a thriving, future-focused Manawatū.

19/10/2026

From paddock to plate, Manawatū is helping shape the future of food and fibre, supporting nearly 4,900 jobs and generating an estimated $835 million in agricultural exports. The latest Agrifood Sector Profile, developed jointly by Palmerston North City Council, Manawatū District Council and CEDA, showcases the scale, strength and future potential that make our region a leading agrifood hub.️
https://manawatunz.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Agrifood-Sector-Profile-August-2026.pdf

15/10/2026

Great to see Rangiotū coming together to celebrate its people, place and sense of belonging 💚 Manawatū District Council

15/10/2026

Unlock the power of social media with a Social Media Strategy & Planning Workshop, a practical session designed to help businesses take a more strategic approach to their social media marketing.
Delivered by local marketers Blacksheepdesign, you’ll learn how to strengthen your planning, prioritise content, choose the right platforms for your audience, and measure performance more effectively.
🗓 Thursday 5th November 2026
📍Focal Point Cinema Function Room, 223 Cuba St, Palmerston North
⏱ Full day workshop
💰 $800 + GST per person
This workshop is registered with the Regional Business Partner Network (RBPN) and your business may be eligible for co-funding. For registrations, co-funding eligibility, or more information about RBP-funded workshops, please see Regional Business Partner Network Upcoming Workshops - CEDA - Central Economic Development Agency

We have a dedicated Māori Business Growth Advisor who will, in partnership with Te Manu Atatu, connect small to medium-sized businesses with support and resources following registration with Regional Business Partners, a programme free to all businesses.

14/10/2026

Magnificent transformation Safari Group NZ Ltd! Congratulations on reaching this milestone 🎉 We're excited to see Tryp by Wyndham Palmerston North open its doors and strengthen Palmy and Manawatū as a destination.

14/10/2026

CEDA representatives have returned from Slovenia as part of the International Urban and Regional Cooperation (IURC) programme, strengthening connections between Manawatū, Taranaki, Denmark and the Ljubljana Urban Region.

Over five days, the delegation explored innovative approaches to agrifood, rural development, research, cooperative business models and sustainable agriculture, while identifying opportunities for future collaboration in areas including water management, food innovation and university partnerships.

The visit concluded with a focus on turning ideas into action, creating pathways for research, knowledge exchange and international projects that could benefit Manawatū and beyond.

"It was fantastic to represent Manawatū alongside partners from Slovenia, Taranaki and Central Denmark during the IURC study visit to the Ljubljana Urban Region. A special thanks to Dr Jocelyn Eason for her participation in the study visit representing the Bioeconomy Science Institute, an organisation we are proud to have in region.

The exchange showcased innovative approaches to agriculture, water management, food systems and circular bioeconomy opportunities. Most importantly, the conversations have already translated into tangible next steps, including research partnerships, university collaborations, and exploration of Horizon Europe opportunities.

We are looking forward to seeing these international connections develop into lasting partnerships and practical outcomes, and to welcome the group here in February 2027." Ashley O'Neil, CEDA Sector Project Lead

13/10/2026

Love discovering new places and experiences? 🎉 Palmerston North is about to become a playground for curious minds when the Festival of Design Aotearoa comes to town!

From 23rd – 25th October, Palmy will come life with creativity, innovation and experiences that invite you to explore our amazing city. Explore behind-the-scenes architecture, interactive exhibitions, guided tours, thought-provoking talks, public art, family-friendly activities and large-scale projections lighting up The Square.

Whether you're planning a family outing, a date night, or simply looking for something different to do, there's plenty to explore. See what's on and start planning your festival weekend 👉 festivalofdesign.co.nz

Palmerston North City Council Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science & Heritage Palmy & Manawatū

09/10/2026

If you're a small business owner, startup founder or social enterprise leader, CEDA's partnership with Business Mentors New Zealand can connect you with an experienced mentor to help accelerate growth, navigate challenges, identify new opportunities and gain an independent perspective on your business.
Find out more🔗 https://ceda.nz/our-business-support/business-mentors/

07/10/2026

Do you have a business challenge, need to learn about funding options, or discuss a growth opportunity or idea you want to explore? Our Business Growth Advisors are here to help point you in the right direction 👉 https://ceda.nz/our-business-support/business-enquiry-form/

05/10/2026

Looking for practical ways to strengthen your business? From marketing to leadership and planning, Regional Business Partner (RBP) workshops connect you with expert advice and new skills you can put into action.
Explore upcoming RBP workshops and learn how to register 🔗 https://ceda.nz/our-business-support/regional-business-partner-network-upcoming-workshops/