ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FOR RURAL AND REGIONAL SMALL BUSINESSES

To provide free or low-cost services to assist existing or start-up small businesses to manage their business aspirations by providing assistance on core business requirements including; registrations, record-keeping, tax obligations and social media implementation, and facilitating access to a range of small business experts.

Running regular workshops in rural towns across the Mallee region to increase business knowledge, help businesses grow and prosper, and in turn build community growth and resilience.

Engaging with small business owners for 1:1 assistance, tailoring information and training to individual requirements, and maximising access to digital engagement and employment opportunities.

The survivability of small businesses in rural communities underpins the viability of towns and communities. Small businesses in the Mallee region historically have less access to expertise supporting their business development and ambitions:
- New enterprises – starting on the right foot.
- Existing enterprises – improving business practices to ensure survivability in good and tough times.
This project gives small business owners and start-ups opportunities to develop businesses skills, confidence to promote and grow, enhances social media presence and links to the digital economy.
Through increased business skills and confidence, the project helps build resilient, sustainable rural communities.