Renewed partnerships boost local businesses
04 December 2024
Ipswich businesses are the winners thanks to renewed partnerships between Ipswich City Council and the Ipswich Region Chamber of Commerce and Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the renewed partnerships will continue for the next two years, bringing a host of benefits to all Ipswich businesses.
“I’m thrilled that council will provide the Ipswich Region Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce with critical funding in 2024-2025 and 2025-2026,” Mayor Harding said.
“The work the chambers do is of great importance to businesses and the Ipswich economy. Over the last three years, businesses, council and the chambers have benefitted from this partnership, maximising engagement and creating a connected economy.
Economic and Cultural Development Committee Chairperson Councillor Pye Augustine said the partnership directly delivers on council’s Economic Development Strategy 2023-2027 outcomes.
“The partnerships build on the pillars of prosperity and partnership as we work collaboratively to drive economic success and growth,” Cr Augustine said.
“Council has ensured that resources are best invested through the chambers for businesses to develop networks, access education and increase their capabilities. Council’s Economic Development team will meet with the chambers monthly to track the progress of the partnership.
“Local businesses are absolutely vital to Ipswich, providing employment and strengthening the economy. Council is committed to supporting businesses as they grow and thrive.”
Ipswich Region Chamber of Commerce President Phillip Bell said the partnership with council was focussed on the mutual objective to contribute to the economic development of the region.
“The focus of the chamber is on activities to strengthen local business, which we do through advocacy, promotion of local business, and events which facilitate business connections and exchange of information,” Mr Bell said.
“The partnership agreement includes sponsorship of the 2025 Business, Careers & Jobs Expo, an event which connects current and future job seekers with employment and training opportunities available in the Ipswich region.
“This agreement also encompasses support for the Ipswich Region Business Excellence Awards, an annual event which honours the outstanding achievements of businesses within our community, recognising their dedication and contributions to local economic growth and development.”
Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce President Neil Coupland said the renewal of the partnership is great news for the chamber and council.
“The partnership allows us to continue the collaboration that benefits all parties, but the big winners are the local businesses,” Mr Coupland said.
“The partnership will enable the chamber to continue creating events tailored to the needs of the local business community with education, wellbeing and support, being top of the agenda, moving forward on last year’s events.
“Council have shown that they are serious about the local business community by continuing to support local chambers who in turn support the people on the ground who need it the most, I am sure this will be well received by everyone to know our local Council is willing to support local businesses.”