Ethnic businesses are being targeted as an untapped source of growth for the economy.
The majority of businesses in New Zealand employ fewer than 20 people, and many of these are run by ethnic people.
The Office of Ethnic Affairs is partnering with ANZ Bank to help small and medium sized businesses grow.
Director Mervin Singham says many ethnic business owners don't know the basics about doing business in this country.
It aims to help such firms get access to information and connect them with mainstream business groups, such as the Chambers of Commerce, which offer support and advice to members.
From examples observed overseas, he says, migrant businesses have the potential to grow and generate trade with the countries of origin.
The Office of Ethnic Affairs will be holding workshops about doing business in New Zealand and will set up an online database to connect ethnic businesses with their mainstream colleagues. ANZ will sponsor these programmes for a year.