Local business chambers, industry associations and not-for-profit organisations are now invited to partner with Council to deliver essential programs for economic growth.
Launched last year, the Business Partnership Program has been established to encourage partnerships with Council in the delivery of events, projects and programs that benefit the business community.
Mayor Patricia White said the program provides streams of funding for local organisations to deliver programs and events that celebrate, develop and create new opportunities for Shoalhaven businesses.
"Following the success of last year's program we're excited to open up applications to local organisations who share our passion for providing events and programs that benefit the community," Cr White said.
"Our goal is to foster a thriving business environment that focuses on building and supporting strong business networks to ensure the Shoalhaven continues to be a vibrant place for enterprise," she said.
"As set out in our Community Strategic Plan, we know that people want resilient local economies. This program shows our commitment to working with local business, big and small to create opportunities for growth and prosperity."
There are four streams of funding for the 2025-26 financial year:
- $15,000 for Business Networking
- $20,000 for Business Development and Training
- $10,000 for Workforce Attraction and Employment
- $25,000 for Business Excellence/Awards
Successful first-time applicants of the Business Partnership Program for 2024-25 included:
- Dairy NSW for their project, Inside Dairy – Explore, Learn, and Experience NSW Farming.
- The Shoalhaven Food Network for their project, Linking the Shoalhaven Hospitality Industry 2025.
- South Coast Beef Producers Association for their project, School Steer Spectacular 2025.
The Shoalhaven Business Chamber for three projects:
- Woman in Business Networking
- Business Development Program
- Shoalhaven Business Awards
To be eligible, applicants must be from, or in partnership with, a not-for-profit organisation and all events must be delivered across the Shoalhaven Local Government Area. Additional eligibility criteria are listed in the program guidelines.
Applications for the first round of funding closes 28 September 2025 and successful applicants will be announced by the end of November.
