Greater Shepparton City Council, proudly supported by Asuria, GOTAFE, Greater Shepparton Business Network, La Trobe University and Workforce Australia Local Jobs (Goulburn Murray), officially launched the 2026 Greater Shepparton Business Festival on Monday 13 July 2026, unveiling its biggest program yet and opening bookings for more than 20 free workshops, networking opportunities and events.
The festival will run from Monday 3 to Friday 21 August 2026, supporting local businesses, entrepreneurs, professionals and anyone looking to build practical skills to learn, connect and grow.
The launch event, hosted by the Greater Shepparton Business Network at the Peppermill Inn, Kialla, brought together local business owners, professionals, presenters and program supporters for an evening of networking and a first look at this year’s festival program.
This year’s program includes practical sessions covering marketing, AI, tendering, workforce support, cyber security, finance, business planning and more, with sessions held across Greater Shepparton and some online options available.
Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali said the festival continues to grow as an important opportunity for the local business community.
“The Greater Shepparton Business Festival is about backing local businesses with practical support, fresh ideas and meaningful opportunities to connect,” he said.
“This year’s program is the biggest yet, with more than 20 free events designed to help business owners, operators and professionals’ step away from the day-to-day and focus on their future growth.
“Council is proud to bring this program to the community with the support of our sponsors, who help make these sessions free and accessible for local businesses.”
A highlight of the 2026 program is keynote speaker Tom Potter, founder of Eagle Boys Pizza, who will present The Eagle Boys Story and the Power of Resilience on Tuesday 4 August 2026.
New in 2026, the Business Support Showcase Day will also be held on Tuesday 4 August 2026, bringing together workshops, business support, networking and the special keynote event in one convenient day.
Council’s Economic Development Engagement Coordinator, Karen Mellington said it was exciting to see the full program officially released after months of planning.
“A lot of work has gone into bringing this year’s program together, so it is exciting to finally have it out there for businesses, entrepreneurs, professionals and anyone looking to build their skills,” she said.
“The program includes a strong mix of practical sessions brought together based on local business needs, with topics covering leadership, digital advertising, building and trade business support, apprentice and trainee pathways and business growth.”
“We are also excited to have Tom Potter in Greater Shepparton for this year’s keynote session. Tom is the founder of Eagle Boys Pizza and has gone on to build and support other successful businesses, with a powerful story to share about resilience, leadership and growth,” she said.
“With sessions held across Greater Shepparton and some online options available, we encourage people to view the program and book early as spots are limited.”
Bookings are now open, with limited spots available. View the full program and book online.
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