Mentoring has proven beneficial for 148 Queensland small businesses in the past financial year, increasing profit and enabling them to employ more Queenslanders.
Minister for Small Business Leeanne Enoch said the Queensland Government’s Mentoring for Growth program had brought real benefits to small business, with the upcoming Queensland Small Business Week (May 15 – 20) to feature key mentors.
“Businesses that have participated in the Mentoring for Growth program (in the past financial year) have experienced a 12 per cent increase in employment, a seven per cent increase in turnover and an 18 per cent increase in gross profits,” Ms Enoch said.
“As part of this program, we offer eligible businesses access to a panel of business experts who give insight, options and suggestions to business challenges.
“This year’s Queensland Small Business Week (2017 QSBW) will feature the advice and expertise from some great mentors who will be sharing their insights across our digital platforms including the QSBW app and social media.
“So I encourage you to download the 2017 QSBW app (external site)and to follow Business Queensland Facebook and Twitter.”
John Burkett, Jill Brennan and Jane Toohey are three Brisbane-based mentors contributing to 2017 Queensland Small Business Week.
“Each and every mentor is passionate about small business and willing to help the state’s 414,000 small business operators,” said Mr Burkett, who is also an entrepreneur and business strategist.
“We don’t pretend to know everything about small business, but we can stimulate thinking and recommend growth opportunities.
“I’ve been in business for more than four decades and made every mistake imaginable. As a mentor I’ll make sure small business owners don’t make the same mistakes I did.”
Ms Brennan said 2017 QSBW was a must-attend event for any Queensland small business owner.
“Business owners will be exposed to ideas and possibilities not on their radar,” she said.
“I’ll also reveal common mistakes almost every small business owner makes and how to avoid them.”
Ms Toohey, also a small business operator, said 2017 QSBW will give owners access to a range of industry leaders and experts “they normally wouldn’t have”.
“The week is a chance for small business operators to break their routine, network and consider new growth opportunities,” she said.
In partnership with Vodafone Australia and Australia Post, Queensland Small Business Week highlights the importance of technology, promotes a culture of entrepreneurship and reinforces to small business owners it’s their time to thrive.
More than 5000 people are expected to participate this year, with key events in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns, Townsville, Bundaberg and Mackay.
Ms Enoch said Queensland Small Business Week was an opportunity for small business operators to access key resources so their businesses can flourish.
“Queensland thrives if the small business sector is strong,” Ms Enoch said.
“To help, we’ve created a coordinated approach across the Queensland Government to deliver services and connect small businesses to opportunities, strengthened support for regional small businesses, and increased collaboration and connectivity between government and key stakeholders.
“It’s never been easier for Queensland small businesses to access the tools and resources they need to start, grow and employ.”
To discover more about 2017 QSBW or to register your interest in hosting a 2017 QSBW event, visit www.business.qld.gov.au/smallbusinessweek or download the 2017 QSBW app. (external site)