A Toowoomba Regional Libraries program is building the skills of local entrepreneurs keen to turn their idea into a business opportunity.
Toowoomba Regional Council Libraries Portfolio Leader Cr Joe Ramia said the 'Start Me Up" Entrepreneur Sessions aim to build upon the existing skills of people interested in starting a business.
"The program that is suitable for those aged 16 years and over will teach the basics about business; from planning and building a brand to basic bookwork and practical writing, Cr Ramia said.
"This two-day free workshop to be held on March 2nd and 3rd covers:
- Design thinking and customer-centric design;
- Customer journey mapping;
- Entrepreneurship and the process of failing fast (and cost-effectively);
- Speed-to-market and how to evaluate customer feedback;
- Rapid prototyping and app design, online platforms and 3D printing.
- Market engagement and selling your ideas; and
- The 'Pitch Deck'.
"Participants will have the opportunity to test their product ideas at market days at upcoming library events, Cr Ramia said.
"When you are starting out in business there is so much to consider and this course is designed to help potential business start-ups to access some fundamental information.
"The library has been able to host these important events with the support of the Queensland Government through the State Library of Queensland.
"An Australian Bureau of Statistics study released in February said there were more than 2.3 million actively trading businesses in Australia and of these there is increasing exit rate of 12.5%.
"Starting a business can be challenging and, if this program can help more new start-up businesses to succeed by providing basic information, then its value is enormous."
