During the lockdown the Kapiti Economic Development Agency (KEDA) discussed ideas about how they could help address two significant issues that have become apparent as a result of COVID- 19:

-How to enable local businesses to get online to sell their goods and services

-How to re-train local people who have become unemployed.

KEDA member Angela Addleton has found a solution which addresses both issues simultaneously. She has developed the concept of a Kapiti Online Shopping Mall. With the support of fellow members Ms Addleton has built a website which will enable local businesses to showcase their products, sell them online, and have them shipped from their own business.

To assist interested businesses to create their presence in this new online store Ms Addleton has set up a training scheme for local residents who are unable to find employment due to health reasons, circumstances out of their control, age, or simply being over-qualified.

Her initial Facebook advertisements looking for those interested in training were so successful Ms Addleton now has a waiting list for those wishing to learn.

With her initial “crew” trained and ready to go Ms Addleton is beginning to roll-out the project. Businesses interested in going online through this website will be asked to assist the project by hosting interns who will learn all aspects of loading the business’s shop onto the new portal. Owners will be included in all decision-making regarding products, branding, colours etc. Each group of interns will work on one business at a time under the instructions and project management of qualified tutors.

A critical part of the service offered is the management of orders and online payments. There are no costs associated with the creation of an online shop. Revenue for the project will come from a small commission on each sale.

There will also be local online editorial magazine and a directory of all clubs and associations in Kapiti.

Chair of KEDA, Liz Koh, says “This is a fantastic solution for the Kapiti community that will improve the resilience of our local economy. It’s a great example of what KEDA is all about – local people who are passionate about Kapiti and who support innovative projects to create more jobs, higher incomes and a better lifestyle for local residents”.

The website, www.kaptibusiness.nz, is still under development and will be launched once the products for sale have been loaded. Interested businesses should contact Ms Addleton at angela@thewebwizards.co.nz.