From exploring AI to strengthening cash flow and planning for long-term success, you'll find the right workshop for you at the Nillumbik Business Ignite Series (NBIS).
The program - formerly known as Nillumbik Small Business Week - is in its fourth year and returns in 2026 as an expanded two-week program with high-impact workshops, keynote speakers and networking events.
Mayor Naomi Joiner said the extended program has been tailored to further support small and home-based businesses throughout the Shire.
"Nillumbik Business Ignite Series is all about supporting small businesses throughout various stages to help them grow, thrive and sustain," Cr Joiner said.
"The workshops, speakers and special events will help you navigate the various challenges small businesses face and provide you with practical tools to make your enterprise flourish," she said.
Keynote speakers for 2026 are Bendigo Bank's Chief Economist David Robertson on the 12-to-18 month economic outlook and Four Pillars co-founder Matt Jones on the strategic clarity that will drive sustainable growth in business.
Running from Monday 25 May to Friday 5 June, events include:
Monday 25 May
Build your AI toolkit: automate, simplify, scale
Tuesday 26 May
Branding for small business: build consistency, confidence and clarity
Wednesday 27 May
Cash flow: debt, growth and the decisions that protect your business
Thursday 28 May
Building businesses that last: Four Pillars co-founder Matt Jones - includes a Produced in Nillumbik Showcase.
Tuesday 2 June
Business support roadshow: advice, insight and economic outlook - featuring David Robertson (Chief Economist Bendigo Bank)
Wednesday 3 June
The growth equation: traffic, conversion and revenue
Thursday 4 June
Be the business AI recommends: SEO, AI and modern search explained
Friday 5 June
Build capacity, not burnout: health, energy and confidence in business
The NBIS is proudly presented by Council in partnership with your local Bendigo Community Bank branches of Hurstbridge, Diamond Creek and Eltham.
