Boosting business growth with AI technology
In response to growing economic development needs, the Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) is significantly expanding its Growth Academy program.
Initially piloted with 250 enterprises, the program will now reach 1,400 businesses across the nation.
This initiative is part of BNZ’s partnership with D/srupt, a software company specialising in growth navigation, to offer a blend of practical workshops and advanced AI-driven tools aimed at enhancing business strategies and performance.
AI’s growing role in business expansion
BNZ’s focus on AI-driven strategy aligns with New Zealand’s growing adoption of artificial intelligence.
A McKinsey report revealed AI’s evolving role in enhancing decision-making processes, while the AI Forum’s “AI Blueprint 2025 Update” observed increased workforce efficiency due to AI. Moreover, an Accenture-analysed Microsoft report forecasts that generative AI could add up to $102 billion to New Zealand’s GDP by 2038, contingent on overcoming challenges like digital maturity and cohesive AI policies.
Transforming operational focus
Brandon Jackson (pictured), BNZ’s general manager of growth sectors, emphasised the program’s core objective: to transition business owners from daily operational tasks to a broader strategic focus.
“As New Zealand's largest business bank, we’ve seen time and again how successful businesses thrive when owners can step back from daily firefighting to focus on strategy,” Jackson said.
The program leverages AI to assist business owners in evaluating their strategic drivers, understanding growth potential, and identifying future funding needs.
Real outcomes from strategic engagement
The effectiveness of the Growth Academy is already evident from its pilot phase, BNZ said.
For instance, BlueDoor, an internet service provider, utilised the academy to refine its expansion strategy.
“The Growth Academy helped us take our strategic thinking to the next level,” said Mark Anderson, BlueDoor’s director, highlighting the structured approach to evaluating growth options provided by the program.
This strategic clarity enabled BlueDoor to secure significant financing from BNZ for its expansion efforts.
Innovative approach to strategy with AI
D/srupt's AI-powered Growth Navigation program simplifies strategic planning, making it more accessible and efficient for small and medium-sized businesses.
Debbie Humphrey, founder of D/srupt, said that their AI tools personalise strategies to the specific needs of each business, which helps in articulating clear operational plans.
“What might have taken a full day of workshops can now be done in minutes,” Humphrey said.
Growth Academy program details and availability
Enrolment for the 2025 Growth Academy began on March 10, ahead of its official launch on March 31.
It will offer both in-person workshops in 16 locations across New Zealand and online sessions to ensure widespread accessibility.
Participants will gain access to D/srupt’s advanced growth navigation platform, personalized strategy assessment tools, and a variety of funding pathway guidance.
For businesses looking to participate or learn more about the BNZ Growth Academy, further details are available on the BNZ website.
