The search is on for business, industry and export specialists who can volunteer as Toowoomba's newest business mentors, with registrations closing at the end of October.
Minister for Employment and Small Business Di Farmer said the impact of COVID-19 was being felt by small businesses in Toowoomba and across the state, and that experienced business professionals could help guide them grow.
"We know that the best thing we can do for small businesses is keep our economy growing, do everything we can to ensure any lockdowns are short and sharp, and keep them open and trading," Minister Farmer said.
"Our strong health response has allowed us to do that, and of course we are now on a huge vaccination push so we can open up to interstate travellers.
"However, we know the impact of COVID-19 is being felt, which is why we've provided a range of financial support and why we put backing small business at the heart of our $14.5 COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan.
"But often what businesses really need is that one on one mentoring, someone who can walk alongside them and help with specific challenges and opportunities.
"That's where our Mentoring for Growth program comes in."
Minister Farmer said the government was on the lookout for more of Queensland's brightest business minds to help small business owners.
"Mentoring for Growth is a free program for Queensland small businesses that provides access to a state-wide pool of mentors who are matched to businesses based on their skills and knowledge," Minister Farmer said.
"In the last financial year, 95 per cent of mentees said that their business reported a projected increase in either employment, turnover or profitability following their session.
"With more businesses seeking advice as they adapt to new ways of operating, more mentors are needed across the state including in Toowoomba."
Toowoomba's Ben Gouldson, Managing Director of Clifford Gouldson Lawyers with more than 25 years in the legal industry and a volunteer business mentor since 2012, said it was a rewarding program for both mentors and mentees.
"By participating in the Mentoring for Growth program you will hone your communication skills, shift your thinking from matter centric to business strategic, and give back to the community," Mr Gouldson said.
"I recall one mentoring session where a mentee was having to make some tough decisions regarding the family business.
"The mentoring sessions gave this person the confidence to have important conversations with the family, and as a result the family was able to work together and the business is now thriving."
Minister Farmer encouraged other business owners in Toowoomba to get involved in mentoring.
"I encourage experienced businessmen and women who know what it's like to start and grow a business, or who have a specific skillset they can share – just like Ben – to contribute to the success of other Toowoomba businesses and nominate to be a mentor," Minister Farmer said.
Mentoring for Growth is part of the Palaszczuk Government's Big Plans for Small Business Strategy and helps small business grow by increasing skills, capability, and identifying opportunities.
