Ringa Hora is progressing to the next phase of our tendering and procurement credential development, and we are now calling for Expressions of Interest (EOIs) to join two new working groups.
We are seeking experienced and passionate individuals from all industries, sectors, and business types to co-design two generic micro-credentials – one focused on tendering, and the other on procurement. These working groups will play a key role in shaping qualifications that reflect real-world practice and help sole traders, SMEs, and business owners build capability and confidence when navigating tendering and procurement processes.
As part of your EOI, please:
EOIs close on 28 July 2025.
Working groups will begin in August 2025.
We welcome EOIs across New Zealand – including industry, government, iwi/Māori and Pacific businesses, not-for-profits, and training providers. Your input is vital to ensure these credentials are practical, inclusive, and future-focused.
Procurement and tendering play a vital role in New Zealand’s economy, governed by the New Zealand Government Procurement (NZGP) framework introduced in 2019. Key sectors such as construction, healthcare, education, IT, transport, and energy are heavily engaged in these processes.
Despite an annual government procurement spend of $42 billion, small and Māori-owned businesses remain significantly underrepresented in successful tenders. Barriers such as limited access to flexible training, complex compliance requirements, and gaps in digital literacy continue to prevent many capable businesses from competing on a level playing field.
Across Aotearoa, Ringa Hora has engaged with Māori business networks, SMEs, training providers, and support agencies. The message is clear: Māori/Pacific and Small businesses are missing out on procurement opportunities due to complex systems, lack of training, and limited time or resources.
Key Insights from Engagements (2024–2025):
In response, Ringa Hora is developing two credentials to meet the diverse needs of Māori/Pacific and Small businesses:
Who it’s for: New entrants, sole traders, SMEs, Māori/Pacific businesses
Focus: Tendering basics, GETS navigation, compliance, cultural competency, subcontracting pathways
Delivery: Flexible, online/blended, practical and accessible
Who it’s for: Businesses with some experience seeking to improve success rates
Focus: Pricing strategy, contract writing, risk management, strategic positioning, digital tools
Delivery: Case-based learning, expert-led workshops, peer networks
| Benefit | Impact |
| Economic Uplift | Increased tender success for Māori and small businesses |
| Workforce Development | Upskilling in high-demand procurement roles |
| Equity and Inclusion | Tailored, culturally aligned support for underserved communities |
| Industry Relevance | Co-designed with business networks, SMEs, and procurement professionals |
The following stages are indicative and subject to change:
Dates will be refined once the Working Group has determined the scope of credential development.
We will be engaging fully with stakeholders and our wider consultation group throughout the project. We welcome feedback or expressions of interest to be involved at any time and will continue to add people who are interested, by emailing [email protected].
