Finance for Creatives
We will be offering the Finance for Creatives Series again in early 2026. Register your interest to be the first to know when dates are confirmed.
Get confident with the numbers to turn your creativity into a thriving business
Whether you’re just starting out or already earning from your creative work, this two-part workshop series is designed to help you build financial confidence and clarity. Learn how to treat your creative practice like a business, price your work sustainably, and plan for long-term growth. Led by Chartered Accountant Lena Ripley, these workshops are friendly, practical, and delivered in a supportive environment.
What You’ll Gain
Finance can feel daunting, but a little know-how goes a long way.
These workshops will give you the tools to:
- Make informed financial decisions
- Build confidence in pricing and planning
- Understand your obligations and avoid common pitfalls
- Create a more sustainable creative practice
Who Should Attend
- Artists, makers, designers, writers, performers, and creatives
- Anyone turning a creative hobby into a business
- Freelancers and side-hustlers moving toward business
- Small business owners that want clearer systems and confidence
- Anyone selling work or services
What to Bring
- Your laptop or notebook if you have one.
- Charger – just in case.
- Any questions or challenges you’re facing.
- An open mind and a willingness to learn.
Programme Outline
Workshops are a week apart at Blank Canvas Creative Hub, 41 Station Street, Napier from 9.00am to 12.30pm.
Workshop 1 – Wednesday 19 November
From Creative Hobby to Creative Enterprise
Workshop 2 – Tuesday 25 November
Profit, Tax & Growth for Your Creative Business
About the Facilitator
Lena Ripley is a Chartered Accountant and Director at Oldershaw. She is known for her approachable and practical style, deep expertise, and commitment to helping businesses navigate their financial journey and thrive.
Lena offers strategic financial advice that supports clients in meeting their obligations and achieving long-term success. She is passionate about empowering women in business and is a strong advocate for professional growth and mentorship.
WORKSHOP 1
From Creative Hobby to Creative Enterprise
Start your journey with the essentials. Are you beginning to sell your work or thinking about turning a passion into a business? This session is for you!
You’ll learn how to:
- When a Hobby Becomes a Business
Understand when your creative side hustle becomes a business in the eyes of IRD, and what that means for you. - Choosing the Right Business Structure
Learn the pros and cons of being a sole trader, company, or partnership, and what’s best for your stage of growth. How structure affects tax, liability and admin. - Separate Your Money
Discover why having a dedicated business bank account is a game-changer for clarity and professionalism. - Tracking Everything
Get practical tips on record-keeping, from receipts to mileage, using simple tools that work for you. Spreadsheet templates and app options. - Making the Leap to Full-Time
Thinking about going full-time? Learn how to assess your readiness and plan for a smooth transition. - Understanding GST
Find out when and how to register for GST, and what it means for your pricing and invoicing and filing returns.
WORKSHOP 2
Profit, Tax & Growth for Your Creative Business
Take your business to the next level with smart financial strategies. Price with confidence, plan for tax and set goals that grow with you.
You’ll learn how to:
- Pricing for Profit
Set prices that reflect your time, materials, overheads, margin and value, and stop undercharging for your creativity. Tactics for valuing and communicating your work. - Planning for Tax
Learn how to set aside income for tax, use IRD tools, and understand provisional tax as you grow. - Forecasting Cash Flow
Create a simple forecast to manage your income and expenses, and prepare for slow periods and plan spend. - Estimating Income Tax
Use tools to calculate your tax obligations and avoid end-of-year surprises. - Understanding KiwiSaver & Investment Basics
Explore how to contribute to KiwiSaver as a self-employed creative, choosing a fund, and using Sorted.org.nz to set goals. Start planning for your financial future.
Investment
$20 (incl GST) per person, per workshop.
This is a two-part programme, and you’re welcome to attend one or join us for both. For the best experience and to gain the full value of this programme, we highly recommend attending both workshops, as each session deepens your understanding and skills.
Ready to Get Financially Fit?
Book your spot today and take the next step in building a sustainable, successful creative business.
Numbers are kept small to encourage meaningful discussion and interaction. There will be time for questions and one-to-one support. We recommended you book early so you don’t miss out.
On the registration form below, simply tick the workshops you’d like to attend to secure your place and be part of this valuable learning experience.
If the form doesn’t appear straight away, try refreshing the page. Still having trouble? Email us at hello@ngatoihawkesbay.co.nz and we’ll get you sorted.