A new support service is here to help Kiwi business owners get the tools and support they need to thrive.

Small Business NZ - SBNZ - is an online platform that launched this week, aiming to provide community, connection and resources for small and micro businesses across the country.

Because, let's face it, running a business is hard says an SBNZ spokesperson.

"Often small business owners feel isolated, left trying to figure it all out alone.

"Despite the difficulties, New Zealand is a proud nation of small and micro business owners."

Defined as a business with fewer than 20 employees, there are approximately 530,000 small businesses in New Zealand, according to Statistics New Zealand and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.

This means small businesses make up 97 per cent of all companies in New Zealand, contributing to over a quarter of New Zealand's GDP and accounting for 28 per cent of nationwide employment.

SBNZ founder and spokesperson Philip Wicks says that in his work as a business success coach, he encounters common problems – feelings of overwhelm and isolation, as well as not knowing where to look for quality assistance. He hopes the platform will help hard-working Kiwis across the country by providing access to quality resources and a support network.

'We want to help small business owners achieve greater work-life balance and business success, equalling a lot less stress. SBNZ aims to save Kiwi business owners time, no more searching on Google, by providing one central hub full of quality resources, articles, and templates suitable for running a business in New Zealand," says Philip.

'The other idea behind founding this platform is there will be a nationwide network where business owners can ask questions, receive quality support and advice, and ultimately help them feel supported in the hard work of running a small business.”

Philip says the platform will also provide members with access to a nationwide network of fellow small businesses, as well as expert providers who have been thoroughly vetted. Small business owners that sign up as SBNZ members by paying a small annual subscription will receive access to discounted services by expert providers in various fields, accounting, business coaching, etc. The site will continually feature more features and resources as it grows.

'There are so many hats that a small business owner wears – marketing, accounting, operations, strategy, customer service, human resources, to name a few," says Philip.

'We want to help small business owners learn which hats they should wear and consider which roles they could possibly outsource at minimal cost.”

All members who join SBNZ before October 1 will be eligible to receive a complimentary 60 Point Business Diagnostic and report (valued at $1200), courtesy of sponsors BSP Advisory Group. In addition, 10 per cent of annual membership fees go towards funding advisory and support assistance for small businesses.

To find out more, visit sbnz.co.nz