The Shire's Small Business Festival is a month-long program of webinars, networking events, and hands-on workshops designed to help local businesses build capability, confidence and long-term resilience.
Featuring around 20 events across the month of August, the full festival program is now live and will cover a wide range of topics relevant to today's business landscape: artificial intelligence (AI), marketing, social media, finance, business planning, sustainability, networking, leadership and operational efficiency.
Delivered by local experts and industry leaders, the program aims to give businesses practical tools, new knowledge and fresh ideas they can apply immediately in their own operations.
The festival officially launches with the 2026 B.I.T.E Conference on 5 August, one of the region's leading business events focused on innovation, technology and future business trends. Early bird tickets for B.I.T.E are available until the end of May.
The festival reflects the Shire's ongoing commitment to supporting local businesses and acknowledgment of its significant impact on the community at large.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Acting Mayor Cr Paul Pingiaro said the festival provides accessible opportunities to learn and build capability close to home.
"The Small Business Festival is designed to give local business owners practical support, valuable connections and access to new ways of thinking that can help them grow sustainably and navigate an increasingly fast-changing business environment," Cr Pingiaro said.
The festival is open to businesses of all sizes and stages, from sole traders and start-ups through to established operators looking to sharpen their skills, embrace new perspectives and connect with the broader business community.
Businesses are encouraged to explore the full program online and book now as places for each event are limited.
