Free council advisory service helping strengthen local businesses
04 October 2022
Ipswich City Council is urging local businesses to take advantage of a free program designed to help them bounce back after recent natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Economic and Industry Development Chairperson Councillor Nicole Jonic said Strengthening Business is free business advisory service run by local independent experts who work with owners and staff to help their businesses grow stronger.
“The focus of the sessions is to offer constructive advice to support business recovery as well as tools for future crisis planning,” Cr Jonic said.
“Our small businesses are the heart and soul of our city and are a key economic driver, so we want to explore new ways to help our local businesses community to thrive.
“We recognise the impact that COVID-19 lockdowns and natural disasters have had on businesses and council wants to ensure that they can bounce back.”
The free program will cover topics including business goals, building on current strengths, business roadmaps, crisis preparation and becoming more resilient.
Councillor Jonic said participants can be assured there will be genuine advice and guidance to make businesses stronger and no sales pitches, hooks or after-session traps.
“The floods and COVID-19 brought fast-moving and unexpected impacts for business, and many were unprepared and are still trying to pick up the pieces,” Cr Jonic said.
“Attendees will learn practical ideas and strategies from experts that they can then action and utilise straight away.
“We look forward to offering our local businesses new ways to adapt to disruptions and turn uncertainty into an advantage and thrive.”
The Strengthening Business program is funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments, in partnership with Ipswich City Council, Entrepreneurs’ Programme, Deloitte and Small Business Financial Counselling Service (SBFCS) Southern Queensland.
Program sessions will be held between 9am-1pm at Fire Station 101, Limestone St, Ipswich on October 4 and 18 and November 1, 15 and 29.
For more information email Business@ipswich.qld.gov.au or visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au/bestnextmove