MBA June event - Save the date

Mark your calendars! The next Monash Business Awards breakfast session is coming up on 27 June 2024.

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to connect with the local business community. Save the date and keep an eye on the MBA website for more details!

Work Assist Program keeping people employed

Work Assist is a free service funded by the Australian Government providing employers with support to keep valuable talent where an employee is at risk of losing their job due to injury, disability or health condition.

Disability Employment Services deliver Work Assist services to eligible employers and employees.

To find a DES provider to access Work Assist services, go to www.jobaccess.gov.au/find-a-provider

Sir John Monash Award - Reconciliation Champion

Does your business work towards advancing Reconciliation within Monash? Nominations are open for Monash Council’s Reconciliation Champion, through the Sir John Monash Awards.

This category welcomes nominations for people who have:

• Made a substantial or ongoing contribution towards Reconciliation.
• Shown involvement on a personal level or as part of an organisation in activities that promote Reconciliation.
• Advocated for Reconciliation.
• Implemented policies and programs that takes into account the needs of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community within Monash.
• Implemented policies and practices that establish a culturally competent workforce.
• Demonstrated support towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees.
• Provide ongoing training for mentoring staff regarding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.

Applications close 5 June 2024. 

Small Business Bus comes to Monash - 5 June

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 Wednesday 5 June 2024.

Grants now open to support a Future Made in Australia

Innovative startups and high-growth small and medium businesses (SMEs) have the chance to apply for grants of up to $5 million to help commercialise their big ideas. 

The grants are available through the Australian Government's Industry Growth Program as part of the Future Made in Australia agenda.

Monash Footpath Trading and Access Policy feedback

We're in the process of updating the Footpath Trading and Access Policy and invite our traders to share their feedback.

The aim of the policy is to ensure footpaths can be effectively utilised for trading, display of advertising signage, or goods, while also aiming to regulate the use of footpaths to ensure pedestrian safety and equitable use for all.

Get more information and have your say by 9 June 2024.

$21,500 grants for Melbourne and Sydney restaurants

Applications are now open for the American Express Backing International Small Restaurants Grant Program for small restaurants in Melbourne and Sydney.

Supported by Mainstreet Australia, the program recognises the challenges small dining venues face in the current economic climate and aims to give them a helping hand.

Apply now for one of 10 grants each valued at $21,500 to put towards improving your business.

Applications close 2pm Friday 31 May 2024.

Entrepreneur Exchange: business networking event

Are you looking to build business connections? Eastern Innovation Business Centre is hosting a free networking event for Monash business owners.

This in-person gathering is perfect for seasoned business owners and those just starting out. Network with others in your industry, share ideas, and gain valuable insights. 

When: Thursday 30 May 2024, 6pm-8pm
Where: Eastern Innovation, 5A Hartnett Close, Mulgrave
Cost: FREE

Monash businesses save thousands through Business Energy Savers program

There are government rebates available for businesses to upgrade old gas appliances and equipment to new energy-efficient electric models.

Register with Energy Savers to learn more!

Congratulations to Monash Business Awards nominees

This month we take a look at three of the latest nominees for the 2024 Monash Business Awards (MBA) who were announced at the April MBA breakfast.

Pacific Sea Urchin Australia is located in Glen Waverley specialising in sourcing and exporting Australian sea urchins. They aim to work with Australian sea urchin divers and processors to produce the best quality roe in Australia. 

The Green Collar partners with WISE Employment, to run a 28-day peer support and allied health service known as WISE UP. Located in Oakleigh East, The Green Collar programs are designed to assist participants in overcoming societal stigmas, helping them become more motivated and be better prepared to re-enter the workforce.
 

E-Kalvi Charity Fund improves the quality of life of future generations by providing better education opportunities. Located in Pinewood, the organisation’s primary purpose is to supplement and ensure continued education outside the framework of formal institutions and organisations.

Taking your business global

The Victorian Government facilitates trade and provides gateways to new markets for Victorian businesses through its well-connected network of Trade Commissioners and Trade and Investment offices in strategic regions across the globe.

These offices help enterprises wanting to expand global supply chains to:

• tap into trade mission opportunities
• develop a business plan
• build a successful export strategy
• assess competition and connect with key stakeholders.

They also offer export training including eCommerce, Cyber Security, International Standards, Freight & Logistics and Trade Mission essentials.
 

Apply for the Global Vic GOVEA Awards

Applications are now open for the 2024 Governor of Victoria Export Awards (GOVEAs). The GOVEAs celebrate and acknowledge excellence across 13 national and two Victoria-only categories and are open to all Victorian exporters.

Winning a GOVEA brings increased brand recognition, media exposure and can open new doors for international business opportunities.

Applications close Friday 14 June 2024.

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.

• Generating Cash Flow – 21 May, 10am-12pm
• Cyber Security – 22 May, 6.30pm-8.30pm
• Starting Your Small Business – 29 May, 1pm-4pm
   

Free business mentoring for Monash businesses

Monash Council works with the Small Business Mentoring Service to provide local business owners who qualify 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.