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Practical training and mentoring for real‑world business growth.
Whether you are starting-up or scaling up, we give businesses the tools, clarity and momentum to strengthen capability, lift performance and move into the next stage of growth.
Business Boost Kāpiti is a partnership between the Kāpiti Business Chamber and the Kāpiti Economic Development Association (KEDA), working together to deliver a co-ordinated programme of training and mentoring for start-ups and small businesses. By combining both organisations' strengths, networks and expertise, the Chamber and KEDA aim to create an accessible and effective pathway for local businesses at every stage of their journey.
Business Boost Kāpiti currently offers two specific training and mentoring programmes: one dedicated to those starting a business, and one designed to help existing businesses with new skills and ideas for growth.
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Our People
Business Boost Kāpiti works alongside experienced local industry specialists to ensure every business receives support that’s relevant, practical, and matched to their goals.
KEDA Board Member
Laurie Wilson
Laurie is an experienced business trainer and coach specialising in start‑ups and small‑business development. He has supported hundreds of business owners and has delivered training and coaching for chambers of commerce, local councils, and government organisations. Blending insight, creativity, and practical experience, Laurie identifies practical solutions that move businesses forward.
Kāpiti Business Chamber
Ella Quivooy
Ella runs her own business and is the Kāpiti Business Chamber Strategy and Partnerships Lead. With 20 years experience in marketing, comms and project delivery with most recent experience in economic development, destination marketing and business growth.
Kāpiti Business Chamber Chair
Ben Jamison
Ben is the CEO of Ōtaki-Māori Racing Club and Chair of the Kāpiti Business Chamber Board. Ben brings 15 years’ experience in business consultancy, change management and operational leadership. As Chair, he is focused on strengthening the Chamber’s commercial direction and supporting local businesses to navigate challenges, build resilience and thrive. He is passionate about Kāpiti’s potential as a visitor destination, and the growth of our creative and tech industries.
"Without Laurie's professional assistance, I doubt that I would be in the position of having three books now published with a fourth well on the way. I have always found Laurie to be a positive and motivating influence for me and now regard him as a good friend”.
John Skene — The Aviation History Hub
"Laurie was approachable, supportive, and provided a valuable sounding board throughout the process. Having the opportunity to discuss ideas and explore different perspectives helped me gain greater clarity and confidence as I considered the future direction of my business. I found the experience both positive and encouraging."
Rochelle Chapman — Kapiti Architectural Design Limited
“Laurie has been an invaluable mentor to me over the past few months, offering guidance on PnL budgets and marketing strategy that's genuinely shaped how I approach both. He has a real gift for cutting through complexity — helping me think more rigorously about where to invest, what to prioritise, and how to connect commercial decisions to broader marketing goals”.
Jane Curruthers — Izzy and Jean
“Laurie is very good at playing devil’s advocate, helping people to see both sides of an issue and to look critically at the viability of their marketing plans. He has a knack of quickly getting to the heart of the matter, conceptualising branding and marketing strategies and articulating USP’s”.
Melita Sharp — Career Coach Consulting
"I appreciate his clever casual approach to complex issues and how he can simplify them to get the best results. Thank you for your suggestions Laurie. I recommend your expertise"
Kamni Raju-Russell — Founder of Copperfield Collective
In a world of generic online advice and sycophantic AI’s, startup guidance is available in quantity, but not always quality. As a serial founder, I’ve deeply valued the breadth and depth of Laurie’s advice, which is grounded in real business experience, along with the local context and connections which online options can’t deliver. Laurie has a personable approach and a passion for Kapiti’s startup community, and I’ve really enjoyed his mentoring.
Nick M — QVM Homes
" I appreciated that Laurie's advice was tailored specifically to me and my business at exactly where I am in my journey. I'm thankful to him"
Meg — Kapiti Delicious Doughs
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