Wollongong City Council's business support initiatives have kicked off with overwhelming interest from local businesses seeking to participate.
Council, in conjunction with partners Investible, a leading Australian early seed investment group, are currently running two business programs, Primed to Thrive and the selective program Thrive.
These initiatives aim to empower local businesses by providing them with the education, support and tools to continue growing into the future in the face of unprecedented change. The two programs will also help empower local job creation and entrepreneurship, which is in line with Council's Economic Development Strategy 2019-29.
We've received an overwhelming amount of interest from a diverse range of industry sectors to sign-up and participate in these programs. Close to 100 businesses registered for the 'Primed to Thrive' program, while 22 businesses were accepted through a competitive process into the targeted and more intensive Thrive program.
"Investible have delivered similar programs in both Sydney and Melbourne that have benefitted their local businesses, so we're pleased to be offering this opportunity to our Wollongong community," Wollongong City Council Director Community Services Kerry Hunt said
"Programs like these fortify our local businesses and help strengthen Wollongong's economy and job opportunities particularly at this challenging time.
"It's important to support our local business owners, and providing opportunities that fortify their resilience and adaptability will not only help them now but also as they grow into the future."
Over the coming weeks, participating businesses will continue to take part in a series of weekly live workshops exploring a range of business model topics and digital marketing.
Thrive participants also have access to additional workshops with a strong focus on validating their existing business models as well as fostering an entrepreneurial mindset and collaboration within the Thrive support network.
Both programs also offer a dedicated online social community established for participants to connect and share knowledge. A feature that's especially useful for small business owners searching for resources or practical guidance that don't have the support that many larger organisations have access to.
Local business owner, Dan Perry of Pilgrims Café is one of the participants in the Thrive Program.
"Times have been super tough for everyone and I've never struggled like this before business wise. I never expect assistance and, to be honest, being in business can be very lonely when things go close to the wall," Mr Perry said.
"This program has been a huge psychological boost…as a regional business it is often hard to find help and times have been super tough for everyone.
"I'm meeting other local business owners who have the same passions and face the same problems. I'm gaining a host of incredible contacts, ranging from other professionals, friends and business people that will be invaluable.
"[Thrive] is helping me adapt, change, learn and reflect on my dream to share Pilgrims with more people. I also believe that Pilgrims can develop further providing meaningful jobs to people in the area.
"I congratulate the Council for doing this. This is the future of employment and great things are happening in this incredible area."
Council looks forward to supporting local businesses over the duration of the program as they progress through their business development journey.
