Small and family businesses across Queensland will soon have access to a range of free short courses to develop new skills, grow capacity and adapt to change.
The Queensland Government has announced $11.5 million to enable UniSC to deliver free courses to give small and family businesses accessible and practical training - from continuity planning to cyber security.
UniSC Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Helen Bartlett, said the University will add six new micro-credential courses over three years.
"The University of the Sunshine Coast is proud to partner with the Queensland Government to deliver flexible, industry-relevant micro-credentials that support the real needs of small and family businesses," Professor Bartlett said.
"The three new courses include AI, cyber security and procurement which, in our rapidly changing world and with the Brisbane and Paralympic Games on the horizon, will make a difference for Queensland small businesses keen to generate new opportunities."
New courses are set to be available early next year, and three renewed courses - Business Planning, Continuity Planning and Workforce Planning - will start soon.
Designed to meet the needs of busy small business owners, UniSC offers flexible delivery options, including face-to-face, online learning, and flexible formats ensuring accessibility for businesses regardless of their location, schedule, or learning preferences.
"By designing courses that are targeted, contemporary and accessible, we can help ensure business owners and their staff have access to learning that is both relevant and immediately useful to their business operations," Professor Bartlett said.
"The university has an important role to play in supporting small business across our communities, and it's programs like this that show the importance of government, industry and higher education working hand-in-hand."
Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin said the micro-credentials program would deliver practical tools and targeted support to help small and family businesses overcome challenges, drive growth, and build resilience.
"Small and family businesses are the backbone of Queensland's economy, driving jobs, innovation, and growth in communities across the state," Minister Minnikin said.
"This $11.5 million investment will give small and family businesses the practical tools and support they need to grow, invest and strengthen their resilience in a changing economic landscape.
"We've also made accessibility a priority, offering flexible delivery options including face-to-face, online, and hybrid-flexible formats."
Minister for Transport and Main Roads and Member for Buderim Brent Mickelberg said the free courses would give business owners and managers the skills to plan effectively, overcome challenges, and embrace new opportunities.
"From mastering planning to leveraging digital tools, these programs are tailored to meet the real-world needs of Queensland small businesses," Minister Mickelberg said.
"Whether you're in a regional town or a busy city, these courses are available to help small and family businesses across Queensland adapt, grow, and stay competitive."
For more information on the courses visit unisc.edu.au/businessmicro
