Rockhampton businesses have gathered in pursuit of new knowledge and peer-to-peer connections at Advance Rockhampton's first Small Business Expo.
Robert Schwarten Pavilion was transformed into the ultimate destination for small business owners yesterday, with around 150 attendees able to meet more than 30 stallholders covering finance, law, tax, insurance, property, exports, human resources and more.
The exhibitors were accompanied by engaging presentations from the Queensland Small Business Commissioner, University of the Sunshine Coast, Whight's Commercial Cleaning, Capricornia Chamber of Commerce and Advance Rockhampton.
Mayor Tony Williams said the Region's 5,450+ small businesses are crucial to the prosperity of the local economy.
"As a Small Business Friendly Council, we want traders to know we have their backs and are continually looking at ways to address the challenges which come from running a small business," Mayor Williams said.
"Through Advance Rockhampton's Small Business Expo we've been able to provide businesses with valuable resources and advice to help their business develop and navigate economic challenges."
"I'd like to thank all of the partners, speakers, exhibitors and attendees who participated in the delivery of this inaugural event and their ongoing contribution to Rockhampton's diverse and thriving business community."
A keynote presentation was delivered by Queensland Small Business Commissioner Dominique Lamb, who provided businesses with information on the business support services provided by QSBC.
"Knowledge is power when it comes to business success, which is why targeted events like the Small Business Expo are so important," Ms Lamb said.
"Small businesses are the lifeblood of our state's economy. With over 495,000 small and family businesses in Queensland, it is wonderful to be here in Rockhampton to hear from small business owners about their unique business journeys.
"Educating small business owners about the wealth of information, services and support available is so important. We hear firsthand from business owners who feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information available, so guiding them to the most helpful resources is crucial to their success"
Advance Rockhampton Economic Development Manager, Wade Clark, encouraged the broader business community to utilise free online resources from the event.
"Appreciating the time constraints that come with running a small business, Advance Rockhampton has developed an online Small Business Expo Hub which is packed with useful resources," Mr Clark said.
"Anyone can hop on the Advance Rockhampton website, watch presentations from the expo, download resources and connect with our speakers – and this resource will remain active and free for anyone who wishes to view it."
The Small Business Expo was delivered by Rockhampton Regional Council's lead economic development agency, with support from Workforce Australia Local Jobs Program, CQROC, 4RO and CQ Today.
