What it pays for.
According to business.govt.nz, the pilot co-funds 50% of approved work: an AI roadmap (up to $2,500 of funding) and implementation (up to $12,500). MBIE expanded it in 2026 to reach more businesses (MBIE). It does not fund general software development, so the work has to be about putting AI to work in your operations.
Who can apply.
- New Zealand businesses with fewer than 50 full-time staff.
- Māori trusts and incorporations are eligible.
- You go through your Regional Business Partner growth advisor; in the Bay of Plenty that’s through Priority One.
Check the dates.
Sources differ on when the pilot closes, so check the current date with business.govt.nz or your growth advisor before you plan around it. Funding is limited and allocated through approved providers.
How to prepare.
Go in knowing which process costs you the most time and roughly how many hours a week. That turns a vague “we should use AI” into a roadmap someone can fund. Where to start with AI walks through it.
MindLabs is not currently an approved provider for the pilot; we can help you get your processes measured either way.