Internet search engine giant Google is offering to do its bit to help New Zealand's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to reach new customers and increase sales during the recession.
Google has offered a free search marketing campaign to New Zealand's estimated 350,000 SMEs.
"In the current economic climate, more New Zealanders than ever before are heading online to research products and services, with search engines central to online navigation, research and comparison shopping," Google Australia and New Zealand general manager Karim Temsamani said in a statement.
The announcement would help put New Zealand's SMEs in front of potential customers at the "precise moment" they were looking for information on their products or services.
Search marketing had become increasingly popular in New Zealand in the past 12 months, with businesses recognising the benefits of measurable, cost-effective and targeted advertising programmes such as Google AdWords, he said.
New Zealand was a nation of small businesses that played a vital role in the country's economy.
"We want to see these Kiwi businesses making the most of the opportunities and efficiencies offered by the internet and encouraging more of them to connect with customers online is a major part of that vision," Mr Temsamani said.
The offer
• Free $75 AdWords search marketing campaign
• Existing advertisers receive master class
• Offer online until August 31
• Go to google.co.nz/stimulus
