- WEB Business Hub officially opens
- Innovation and co-working hub first of its kind in Port Hedland
- Project supports State Government's commitment to build capacity and capability of regional businesses
Businesses in Port Hedland will have better access to support programs, collaboration opportunities and affordable office and co-working space with the official opening of the WEB Business Hub today.
The WEB is an innovation and co-working facility that aims to build a business community environment that will accelerate small business growth in Port Hedland.
The new facility is comprised of seven private offices, of which 90 per cent have already been leased to local businesses; a co-working area with 11 hot desks; a dedicated workspace with a further 12 desks; three meeting rooms; and multifunctional indoor and outdoor event spaces.
A series of business support programs and events will be run from the new facility including Catalyst, a 10-week business planning course for start-up businesses and entrepreneurs.
A total of 23 Pilbara businesses were contracted as part of the construction of the WEB, with 60 per cent of the furnishings for the facility fit-out purchased from local businesses.
The WEB is one of three business innovation centres in the Pilbara supported by the State Government that will work together to accelerate small business growth and development in the region.
The WEB Business Hub was made possible with $2 million from the State Government through the Pilbara Development Commission, a $1.9 million contribution from BHP and $425,000 from the Port Hedland Chamber of Commerce Inc.
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"The WEB Business Hub is a first-class facility that will become the heart of business in Port Hedland.
"It's a great time to be growing or starting a business in the Pilbara with more support than ever for entrepreneurs to take their business or idea to the next level.
"We need enterprises of all shapes and sizes to build greater economic complexity in the Pilbara and the WEB will be a valuable asset as a place for businesses to connect, learn and grow.
"The completion of the WEB supports the State Government's commitment to strengthen the capability and capacity of locally based small businesses to build strong regional economies and create new jobs."
As stated by Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"I congratulate the McGowan Government and the Port Hedland Chamber of Commerce for their continued support of small businesses, and their commitment to long-term, diversified and sustainable economic growth.
"The WEB Business Hub will foster the entrepreneurial and innovative mindset that our Pilbara is famous for."
