Strong relationships build strong businesses
Manager of Techtro Solutions Maria Ngatikao is full of praise for BLP advisor Iokopeta Williams. With the accounting and administration assistance and advice provided by Iokopeta, Techtro now works efficiently and seamlessly. Past issues have been corrected and staff properly trained. When Maria has a question during her day-to-day running of the accounting package, Iokopeta is able to log in to Xero in her capacity as an advisor and quickly resolve Maria’s questions.
A well-established provider of IT services in the Cook Islands, Techtro differentiates itself from the competition by focusing on networking solutions. This meant the first month after the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020 saw a surge in business as Techtro worked to set their customers up to work from home. Since that time, with businesses in the islands and globally not running to capacity, Techtro has experienced a sharp decline in revenue – earning just enough, however, to not qualify for the first round of wage subsidies.
Through networking in the Rarotonga business community, Maria came to know several BLP advisors, including Iokopeta Williams – and is very grateful she did.
Having Iokopeta put things in order has been amazing. We understand things better, are able to run reports with just one click with Xero – when the boss says ‘show me X’, I can! We had been using Xero before, but it had never been set up properly, and with those past problems fixed it is now so much better. We have better clarity and understanding of our financial position day-to-day. It’s been an absolute win.”
The advisory service Techtro received through BLP’s subsidy went further than expected. Maria continues:
Accounting was the priority, but through updating our accounting systems, our administration is working better. We are more efficient, with practical procedures and systems in place.
Maria describes how working with Iokopeta has increased her business knowledge, and confidence that the business will grow and prosper as a direct result of the BLP subsidised service.
When I have an idea, Ioki steps in and says ‘maybe we should try this first before we do that’, so guides me to slow down and make better decisions. It’s so incredibly useful having such a proactive person on board who is so keen to help. A further benefit is that Ioki has a good relationship with the Ministry of Finance and Economics, and she passes her knowledge on to us. With Ioki’s help we may qualify for other assistance to get us through the pandemic.
Maria categorically states that Techtro will continue to use Iokopeta in the future. With the business running efficiently and smoothly, from a financial perspective the cost will be far outweighed by the benefits. Knowing their financial position, Techtro is now able to respond quickly to disasters or market changes and are better able to adapt to the changing conditions.
We really appreciate having BLP’s subsidy to give us access to Iokopeta’s services, it’s been incredibly helpful for the business. We have kept our head above water – this was a real win for us.”
Quality approved Business Link Pacific business advisors can offer advisory services at a discounted rate through the BLP subsidy service. Subsidies range from size based on the scale of the business and the services provided. An eligible company can apply for the BLP subsidy through an approved business advisor.
BLP supports an extensive network of advisory partners across the pacific islands, who offer services in 15 different areas, including accounting, marketing, human resources, diversity and inclusion and business strategy.
To get in contact with a BLP business advisor, businesses that employ 5 to 50 employees can use the free self-assessment online tools, such as the Business Health Check and the Continuity planner. Also, companies can book a free face-to-face consultation in the countries where BLP operates to go through the business diagnostic, a comprehensive assessment of business needs and opportunities. Based on the assessment results, businesses are provided with a list of Business Advisory Service Providers that can help address relevant business needs.
Visit Business Link Pacific Portal to use our free self-assessment online tools or book a local consultation in your country. Country contacts.