General News
16 January, 2023
Business bus ready to roll into Maryborough
Maryborough is ready to get down to business with a free service on wheels rolling into town next month — helping those who want to start or better manage their companies. Giving advice and support to upcoming enterprises, the Small Business Bus...
Maryborough is ready to get down to business with a free service on wheels rolling into town next month — helping those who want to start or better manage their companies.
Giving advice and support to upcoming enterprises, the Small Business Bus (SBB) travels across Victoria providing assistance to small-scale ventures in metro and regional areas.
Now, mapping its route to Maryborough, the SBB will help locals accelerate their businesses on February 6 at Philips Gardens from 10 am to 4 pm.
The sessions are one-on-one and require bookings, but are free of charge. They will be headed by advisors from Monarch Institute who will provide personalised advice geared towards starting or growing a business.
People are also able to walk-in to access the Bus Concierge service which will give out general information about Business Victoria as well as the Planning and Starting Your Business pack.
With the pandemic affecting the working of most companies, it is important for people to capitalise on SBB’s service according to Central Goldfields Shire Council economic development officer Brian Gould.
“In recent years, businesses both small and new have been impacted by a combination of COVID, operational disruptions and cash flow challenges,” he said.
“The SBB provides a unique opportunity for local businesses to speak one on one with skilled business experts.
“Whilst walk ups to this service are welcomed it is often better to plan in advance by making an appointment at a time that suits your business.”
Mr Gould said there are many benefits arising from the bus coming into town — providing help that would otherwise be hard to access.
“Accessing free, confidential and professional advice on business related matters often require travelling to another region,” he said.
“The mobile SBB has been operating for many years and its ability to come to local towns has made it easier for businesses to find the time in their busy schedules to gain expert assistance on issues and referrals to other services as needed without the travel.
“The staff are former business operators and so they have an understanding of the pressures and challenges and can provide guidance on solving issues.”
While the SBB will help business-owners, it will also impact the well-being of the shire’s economy — with small-businesses playing an important part in sustaining it.
“Small businesses are the most significant sector in the local economy,” Mr Gould said.
“Not only do they provide a wide range of goods and services, they are also a provider of career opportunities.
“Central Goldfields continues to be an attractive place to operate a new business — continuing to provide for loyal local residents. Despite the pandemic there have been a number of new businesses starting up or exploring opportunities to commence in the near future.
“That is key to a successful local economy where opportunities exist and where support can be obtained to help sustain a business by accessing services such as the SBB and the shire, as needed.”
To book a session with the Small Business Bus visit calendly.com/businessvicsbb1/45min-mentor-session-maryborough?month=2023-02&date=2023-02-06