A $10,000 Brumby Government grant will fund a series of eight business development events in Colac and Apollo Bay aimed at enhancing networking and business sustainability in the region, Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP announced today.
Ms Tierney said six ‘On the Front Foot for Business’ events would be held in Colac and two in Apollo Bay during 2010 and 2011.
“The business events encourage business to network and share information to build on local strengths that contribute to long-term sustainable business development,” Ms Tierney said.
“They will also help small business operators understand what actions are needed to adapt to change, both from an economic and an environmental perspective.”
The ‘On the Front Foot’ events will inform local business operators of current and emerging issues affecting small business through a combination of formal workshops and informal networking events, including breakfasts, day sessions and ‘after-five’ functions.
Invited speakers could address topics relevant to local business such as:
o Climate change and the impact of an Emissions Trading Scheme;
o Business Services such as sustainability planning, tax and insurance;
o Social Network Marketing and PR; and
o Leadership for Small Business.
“Events like these are terrific for increasing business-to-business trade, and they give businesses the opportunity to improve their knowledge about current issues,” Ms Tierney said.
“They encourage local businesses to network and strengthen relationships with each other, which enhances local business cohesion and ongoing partnerships for business sustainability.”
Ms Tierney said State funding to the Colac Otway Shire Council for the $20,000 project came from the Government’s Provincial Victoria Events Program.
The balance of funding is to come from the Otway Shire Council ($6,000) and WHK Mahoney Archer ($4,000).
“The Brumby Government is committed to working in partnership with local councils and communities to deliver events that drive new growth and investment opportunities across provincial Victoria,” she said.