Business Canterbury – Our moment is now: Private sector leads development of ambition for Canterbury

Source: Business Canterbury

Business Canterbury formally launched the Canterbury Ambition last night at its annual Back to Business event, a sold-out gathering held at the region’s brand-new Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre.

Business Canterbury’s Chief Executive Leeann Watson says, “Canterbury is ready to lead, and we’re not waiting for government to tell us what our future should look like. The Ambition is a shared vision – led by the private sector and supported by local government – which seeks to lock in the confidence and momentum we’re seeing across our region right now.”

“Through conversations with both local government and business leaders, we quickly reached a consensus that the connection between our environment, innovative spirit, and affordable housing and lifestyle is what sets us apart and should underpin our growth story moving forward.”

“Announcing this piece of work in a room full of bold thinkers and doers felt incredibly fitting. The energy in the room spoke to the ambition and optimism building across Canterbury. We are delighted to have this work now live, and we’re looking forward to progressing it alongside the businesses and leaders who helped shape it.”

Where we are today is just the starting point for significant work ahead — creating a tangible roadmap and shared work across both the public and private sectors.

A summary document, a launch video and further information on the Canterbury Ambition is available at: https://www.businesscanterbury.co.nz/canterbury-ambition

Business Canterbury, formerly Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce, is the second largest Chamber of Commerce in New Zealand and the largest business support organisation in the South Island. It advocates on behalf of its members for an environment more favourable to innovation, productivity and sustainable growth.