Start up, Invest & Grow in Monash in May

Start Up, Invest and Grow in Monash is your launchpad to business success!

Presented by City of Monash and Monash Precinct Network, this month-long program in May connects entrepreneurs with valuable resources, expert education and powerful networks to thrive in Monash. 

Throughout the month, we’re hosting a series of 11 events and workshops, including:

• Funding pathways: A guide for Victorian startups
• Women in business: Strategies for growth and success
• Digital transformation: Enhancing customer journeys
• Winning government grants and tenders
• Lead generation and converting customers
• Supporting, starting and scaling bio-led ventures in Monash
• Future trends in AI and harnessing them for your business

Browse the full program online. Spaces are limited so book early to avoid missing out! 

Businesses are welcome to attend multiple sessions. Eligibility requirements may apply.

ATO Masterclass series

We've partnered with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to offer masterclasses designed to strengthen your small business knowledge.

During these free online sessions, you will have the opportunity to speak with experienced tax officers, ask questions and gain insights tailored to your business needs. 

Fringe benefits tax
Tuesday 25 March | 12pm - 1pm

Claiming deductions for your home-based business
Tuesday 29 April | 12pm - 1pm

Expanding Horizons, building community

Over the past two years, Expanding Horizons has connected more than 100 participants, employers and stakeholders, building greater inclusivity in workplaces and the wider community.

We would like to thank everyone who worked with the project team to deliver this success.

Funded by the Department of Social Services, Expanding Horizons is delivered by Monash Council and Holmesglen Institute.

The Australian Government provides Disability Employment Support for job seekers and employers on its JobAccess website. 

For more information on Expanding Horizons, please contact Michelle.Bloch@monash.vic.gov.au
 

Small Business Bus comes to Monash - 7 April

Register for a 45-minute session to receive FREE tailored advice to support you in starting, building or transforming your business.

The next stop is Oakleigh, near the corner of Drummond Street and Atherton Road, on Monday 7 April. Bookings are essential.

Tendering: What are social impact suppliers?

Most government contracts and tenders require suppliers include an element of social impact or social outcome.   

Learn what social impact means and find suppliers that qualify on the Victorian Government's Buying for Victoria website.

Call to ease small business burden

Federal crossbenchers will call to raise the small business threshold in the Fair Work Act from 15 to 25 employees to help ease regulatory burdens and reduce red tape.

This would especially benefit those in the hospitality and retail sectors. The call is echoed in the Australian Retailer’s Association’s Federal Election submission.

Understanding employment types and hiring options

There are many ways to employ someone in a small business.

You might need to boost rosters for a short period or want to hire someone for a long-term contract. Each option will have different employment conditions and entitlements.

For more on employment types and hiring options, visit the Business Victoria website.

Take the stage at Pitch Night 2025 - Apply now!

Are you looking to showcase your business to a panel of industry experts, investors and a supportive entrepreneurial community? 

Apply for Eastern Innovation’s Pitch Night 2025! 

Successful applicants receive:

• The chance to win 6 months of workspace at Eastern Innovation 
• Expert-led pitch training from 25eight 
• Professional headshots from Ruefee Reels 
• Networking with business leaders
• The chance to refine your pitch and gain valuable feedback from expert judges

Spots are limited. Express your interest today!

Expressions of interest close Friday 21 March.
Pitch night: Thursday 29 May

Win sales as an introvert without feeling pushy: Workshop and networking

Tired of hearing "I'll think about it" and losing potential clients? Learn how to sell effectively as an introvert without feeling awkward or inauthentic. This workshop will empower you to build genuine connections, boost your conversion rates, and achieve your desired sales success. 

When: Tuesday 1 April, 6pm - 8pm
Where: Eastern Innovation, 5A Hartnett Close, Mulgrave

Business Renewables Buying Group 2025: Online information session

The Business Renewables Buying Group aims to help businesses transition to 100% renewable electricity by leveraging collective buying power to reduce costs. An external facilitator will guide the group to maximise their purchasing power, while cutting the complexity, time and cost involved in going 100% renewable.

This group is open to businesses in Victoria that consume over 500mWh of electricity annually (spending approximately $100,000 per year) and have energy contracts ending in 2025 or 2026. 

Interested in transitioning to renewable energy? Or want to learn more? Sign up for the group’s free online webinar.

When: Tuesday 25 March, 11am - 12pm

Business Energy Savers Program

Businesses located in City of Monash can register with Energy Savers to receive free advice about how to become more energy efficient and take advantage of the Victorian Government’s Energy Upgrade initiative.

Energy Savers connects business owners with a selected panel of accredited and trustworthy suppliers who can take care of the upgrades and required paperwork to access the subsidies.

For more information call 1300 571 535 or register below.

Free webinar: Getting paid on time

Cash flow is a major concern among Victorian small businesses. The cost of doing business is reducing margins and unfortunately many small business owners are not being paid on time for their goods and services.

Join Victorian Small Business Commissioner Lynda McAlary-Smith to hear practical guidance on how you can give yourself the best chance possible of being paid on time. 

The Commissioner will also provide guidance on how to follow up outstanding invoices, and what pathways of escalation are available to you.

When: Thursday 25 March, 5.30pm - 6pm

Protecting the health and safety of young workers

Every day roughly 200 young Victorians, aged 15-24, join the workforce. They can bring enormous energy, enthusiasm, ideas and innovation to your small business.

If your business employs young workers, it is important to understand how you can protect and promote their safety.

SEMMA Future Manufacturing Forum

Boost your bottom line at the Future Manufacturing Forum Victoria, presented by TXM Lean Solutions in partnership with South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA).

The forum is set to empower local business leaders with actionable insights and will draw from the successes of prominent Victorian businesses and insights from international experts. 

When: Thursday 3 April, 8.30am - 2pm
Where: Holiday Inn Dandenong, 50-52 McCrae Street, Dandenong

Business Victoria: Online workshops, courses and mentoring

Looking to start, grow or take a fresh look at your business? You can register for a short course or webinar or access a FREE online business advice session from an expert.

• Starting your small business – 26 March, 1pm - 4pm
• Social media and content marketing – 3 April, 6pm - 9pm
   

Free business mentoring for Monash businesses

Monash Council works with the Small Business Mentoring Service to provide eligible local business owners with access to up to four FREE one-hour sessions with an experienced business mentor.

Email ecodev@monash.vic.gov.au if you are interested in accessing this service.