From workshops to networking opportunities and expert panels, there’s something for everyone at this year’s Geelong Small Business Festival.
Those starting or growing a business are being encouraged to take advantage of a range of free and low-cost events on offer at this year’s festival, which runs for all of August.
City of Greater Geelong mayor Peter Murrihy said the festival will help to upskill prospective and current business owners, while creating networking opportunities to support our local business community.
“The festival brings together some of our region’s best business experts, small business owners and managers, and leading industry organisations to share their knowledge and experiences,” he said.
“This is a great opportunity to learn new skills, gain knowledge, be inspired by innovative ideas, and discover new ways of doing business.”
Economic Development Deputy Chair, Councillor Bruce Harwood, said now in its 12th year, the festival helps to connect, grow, and upskill hundreds of local businesses.
“The skills, resilience and ambition of Greater Geelong’s small businesses are vital to our economy and our communities,” he said.
“Small businesses have been tested like never before with COVID-19 restrictions, inflation and staff shortages. They’ve made enormous sacrifices to keep Geelong going and we want to acknowledge their hard work, effort and resilience.”
The festival will be launched at The Pier with adventurer, award-winning documentary-maker, television presenter, and businessman Todd Sampson titled ‘Boost your brain power’.
Guests will also hear from a panel of Geelong’s leading business experts as they share insights and tips on the current business environment and adaptations to COVID-19.
Co-Founder and Director of the Natural Supply Co Celeste Robertson will speak about her experiences successfully running a small business.
“We’d run a successful business online for six years before we opened our store in Newtown in 2020 at the height of the pandemic,” Ms Robertson said.
“While business conditions have been uncertain, we’re still reaching new customers and we love connecting with our local supporters face-to-face.
“Every business needs a point of difference and ours is known for its high-quality products, friendly atmosphere and personalised service.”
Free events at the festival include:
Business Networking Masterclass
Geelong Chamber of Commerce
10am to 11:30am Tuesday 2 August
I’ve got a Great Idea
Ascend Accounting and Advisory
10am to 11am Tuesday 9 August
Seniorpreneurs: Valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs over 50
Pointnorth Consulting & People Empowered
10am to noon Saturday 13 August
Get Ready, Get Set, GROW – Refugee & Migrant program
Runway HQ
10am to 5pm Monday 15 August
Starting a Home-Based Food Business
City of Greater Geelong
2pm to 3.30pm Tuesday 16 August
Legal tips for starting a business
Coulter Legal
11am to noon Thursday 18 August
Start-up Business Support and Open Day
Runway HQ
10am to 5pm Thursday 25 August
Using Water Wisely, reducing costs and operating sustainably
Barwon Water HQ, 55-67 Ryrie St, Geelong
11am to 1pm Monday 29 August
Todd Sampson
