Registrations are now open for a series of events to connect regional small and family businesses with advice, government programs and local support services.
The Connect, Learn and Network series runs from May to July 2026, including in the Riverland, Murraylands, Fleurieu Peninsula, Adelaide Hills, Kangaroo Island, Yorke Peninsula, Mid North, Barossa, Eyre Peninsula and the Limestone Coast.
Business owners can come along and meet their local support officer to connect with organisations and other business owners.
It's also an opportunity to learn about programs and services like business planning, grants and dispute resolution, exporting, mental health and wellbeing, sustainability, AI capability and support for women in business.
In regions impacted by the drought or algal bloom, additional support will be available through Rural Business Support and Regional Development Australia, including financial counselling, business planning, mentoring and grant assistance.
There are more than 160,000 small businesses operating across South Australia, including 37,995 in regional areas, supporting local jobs, supply chains and economic activity.
The State Government's $25.2 million Small Business Strategy 2023-2030 is helping South Australian small and family businesses build capability, resilience and confidence through targeted programs and services.
More than 18,600 participants have been supported since 2023, including more than 4,600 women through the $8 million Women in Business Program.
The series begins on Wednesday 27 May in Loxton and Murray Bridge, before continuing in regional communities through to July. The events are being delivered by the Office for Small and Family Business, for more information, including event locations and to register, visit business.sa.gov.au/regional-events
As put by Nadia Clancy
Regional small businesses play a critical role in South Australia's economy, creating local jobs, supporting supply chains and sustaining the services communities rely on.
We know business owners are busy, and in many regional communities it's not always easy to step away, nor practical to travel to seek support or advice.
That's why we're bringing government programs, practical business information and local support services together across South Australia, so business owners can get clear information, make the right connections and find support to help them start, develop and grow.
I'm really looking forward to meeting regional businesses and hearing about local challenges and opportunities.
