Local businesses and organisations are invited to play an active role in shaping the 2026 Geelong Small Business Festival, delivering a week of connection, learning and collaboration for the region's business community.
Now in its 16th year, the festival brings together local businesses, professionals and entrepreneurs through workshops, presentations and networking events designed to build capability, share knowledge and strengthen connections.
Due to popular demand, the festival hub will return to the Wurriki Nyal Civic Precinct in Geelong, with the program also visiting Torquay for one day to support regional participation.
The 2026 festival will run from Monday 3 August to Friday 7 August, delivering a focused program that also aligns with major regional business events, including the Tourism Together Conference on Wednesday 5 August, creating additional opportunities for collaboration and networking.
The festival is delivered by the City of Greater Geelong in partnership with the Geelong Chamber of Commerce, reflecting a shared commitment to supporting small businesses across the region.
Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM
Small businesses play an important role in adding community, culture and connection to the Greater Geelong region.We're making sure we continue to invest in the business community by providing opportunities for growth, learning, and networking.
Geelong Chamber of Commerce CEO Jeremy Crawford
Geelong Chamber's partnership with the City of Greater Geelong is always focused on business growth, connection, and learning.The festival, which supports Geelong's small to medium enterprises, the backbone of our local economy, is always a highlight on the business calendar.
So many businesses gain knowledge and build capability through the learnings and connection they make at the Geelong Small Business Festival.
Expressions of Interest to host an event as part of the festival program are now open and will close at 11.59pm on Sunday 12 April.
A full program is expected to be released in June.
