Are you a local business owner interested in getting the most out of your business? Could you use help creating a business plan, finding new customers, or understanding more about the region?
Did you know that The Hills Shire Council offers workshops and programs to help your business grow and thrive?
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Peter Gangemi, said Council was committed to supporting local businesses with educational workshops, targeted demographic information and individual support.
“Small businesses are the backbone of the local economy,” Mayor Gangemi said.
“Small businesses do so much for our region, including the provision of local jobs, offering the services we need close to home, and making The Hills a vibrant place to live and work.
“We understand how important it is for businesses to succeed, which is why we’re offering support at every stage of the journey,” he said.
Business help desk and concierge program
This free, individualised program empowers you with the resources you need to make sound business decisions. By booking an individual meeting, you can discuss your business needs, gain insight into free market intelligence, learn about grants, licences, permits and government regulations and connect with networking groups.
Demographic resource centre
Council’s demographic resource centre offers access to a wealth of data and information to give you a better understanding of the characteristics of the region including local trends, population forecasts and insights into the workforce. Knowing more about your community can help you connect with your target audience, customise your marketing strategy and keep up with local trends.
Business education series
Get ready, set, and grow your business in 2024 with a curated series of workshops, webinars and interactive learning experiences. Most of the sessions are free and the series runs throughout the year covering essential business knowledge including:
- Marketing And Sales Planning (19 March, 6pm to 8pm): learn how to be strategic about both marketing and sales planning, maximising your time and money investments into real results.
- Book An Expert Digital Advisor (18 April, 16 May, various time slots, $45 + GST): book a one-to-one session with an expert business advisor to work on all matters digital and marketing.
- Finding Your Customers: DIY Low-Cost Market Research (4 June, 6pm to 8pm): learn about conducting research before launching a new product, service or business.
- How To Scale Your Business With Outsourcing (3 September, 6pm to 8pm): navigate potential pitfalls and how to trust someone with your work that is not in your business.
- Success Through People (14 October, 6pm to 8pm): learn about how to create a high-performance culture, understand your HR obligations, plus gain practical tips and information.
In addition, Council has also released its annual Business Performance Sentiment Index (PSI) survey. The survey is open to Hills Shire businesses and measures the region’s business performance, conditions, and sentiment.
Results from the PSI will inform future training programs and workshops that will help businesses to grow and adapt to the economic conditions.
“I am calling on Hills businesses to participate in the 2024 PSI survey, which will give key insights to the business community and allow Council to better target its economic development program,” Mayor Gangemi said.
“Results from the 2023 PSI showed that businesses participating in programs were more likely to forecast growth in the upcoming year.
“I encourage you to explore the many opportunities on offer and tailor-make a program of support to suit your needs in 2024.”
To book an individual help desk appointment, participate in the annual PSI or for details about the business education series, visit: www.thehills.nsw.gov.au and search “Business”.
