Franchise & Small Business Expo
Description
You are invited to join us at Due Drop Events Centre, Auckland, on 18–19 September 2026.
The Franchise & Small Business Expo is a free two-day event for people starting, buying or growing a business.
Meet franchise brands, business advisors, suppliers and industry experts, and explore practical sessions covering growth, marketing, cashflow, hiring, AI, systems and leadership.
Whether you already run a business or are considering your next move, you’ll find useful advice, new opportunities and people who can help you move forward.
Explore the agenda and register free.
Agenda
- 9:00 am
Where to From Here? What SMEs Need to Know About the Economy, Policy and Opportunity All Tracks
Simon Bridges and Katherine Rich examine the economic and policy shifts shaping New Zealand business, what SMEs should be watching, where opportunities may emerge and how owners can prepare for what comes next. Format: Fireside chat — 40 minutes Speakers: Simon Bridges — Chief Executive, Auckland Business Chamber Katherine Rich — Chief Executive, BusinessNZ Moderator: Wilhelmina “Wils” O’Keeffe
- 10:00 am
The Confidence Chain: Courage, Connection and the Real Work of Helping Others Succeed
Confidence is rarely built alone. This panel explores how networks, mentoring, sponsorship, meaningful introductions and encouragement help people move forward—and the responsibility to help others succeed. Format: Panel — 40 minutes Speakers: Verity Craft (Moderator) — Speaker & Book Coach, Intelligent Ink Carolyn Banks — Chief Executive, NZ Businesswomen Anna Lawrence — GM Marketing & Media Partnerships, Auckland Transport Caro McCourtie — Founder, The Power of YOU Olivia Blaylock CEO, Icehouse CEO
- 11:45 am
Everyone Has AI. The Difference Is You.
As AI becomes accessible to every business, the real advantage will come from how people think, lead and use it. This session explores what will separate businesses that simply adopt AI from those that use it to create real value. Format: Keynote Speakers: Justin Flitter — Founder, NewZealand.AI
FAQs
- What is the cost to attend?
The expo and all seminars and workshops are fee to attend.
- Where can I find the full agenda
You can view the full two day agenda here
- What is the cost of entry and parking
There are no entry or parking fees
- Do I need to register for a workshop
No, but you do need to register to attend. Please fill out the registration form. You can then sign in and create your own itinerary. You can save sessions to your profile.
- I need to contact the organiser
You can contact us via the about us section here. https://expo.nzsme.co.nz/
- Is there catering at this event
No, but there is an onsite cafe for you to purchase food and beverages.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
