26 October 2018
October is Small Business Month and a number of events have been co-ordinated across the Gunnedah Shire to provide practical information and ideas, as well as networking opportunities to help businesses start-up and grow.
Local businesses have already benefited from a workshop held by Business Connect via Nortec, designed to inspire and “germinate” new business ideas to grow.
The workshop was a combination of information and ideas formation, and concluded with an ‘ideas’ pitch.
Business Connect Advisor Derek Tink designed and delivered the workshops across the region.
“The workshops have been a success all round, with many new business ideas ‘pitched’ during the workshops,” Mr Tink said.
“Ideas were inspiring, including new solar energy innovations, localised crowd funding campaigns and delivering healthy food for healthy minds.
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Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey spoke at the event to provide an overview of the importance of entrepreneurship, innovation and supporting start-ups within the Shire.
“Gunnedah in on the move and is a great place to be starting business,” Cr Chaffey said.
“We have a vision for development that aligns to evolving opportunities around food processing, agribusiness and harnessing further opportunities with future developments.”
Mr Tink researched during the workshops, involving businesses across the region, and from the data noticed a low level of awareness regarding support for start-ups.
“A notably high percentage of participants were not aware of the various forms of support for start-ups including Business Connect, NEIS program, Jobs for NSW, UNE Smart Regional Incubator and more,” he said.
“Business start-ups should connect with other businesses owners; those who have been there and done that.
“Local Chambers, such as Gunnedah Chamber of Commerce, provide good opportunities for networking.”
A Business SWOT Workshop held by the Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, 24 October, where businesses worked through a Strength Weakness Opportunities and Threats analysis to set objectives and form their business plan.
Lunch with Lisa Messenger today (Friday, 26 October) at 12:30pm at the Gunnedah Band Hall is expected to be a successful event, with last minute tickets selling fast for a chance to learn from the popular media influencer, author and public speaker.
Gunnedah Shire Council’s Manager Economic Development Charlotte Hoddle provided information to workshop participants on Council’s Business Partner Program, which can provide financial support to start-up and already established businesses.
For more information about the Business Partner Program, visit www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au or phone Council’s Customer Service Team on (02) 6740 2100.
Applications for round two close 30 October 2018.
Photo Caption: Gunnedah businesses take advantage of the free workshops during Small Business Month.
ENDS
Media Contact: Brooke Maisey 6740 2100.
