FREE business workshops & mentoring | Information on Cardinia Shire & government grants | Informative business articles
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February 2024
Welcome to the latest edition of Cardinia Business! We have some exciting news to share with you about upcoming free workshops and mentoring sessions.
The 2024 Cardinia Grants Program is currently accepting applications. These grants encompass a wide range of areas, such as festivals and events, community capital works, and wellbeing support. This presents an excellent chance for businesses and community groups within Cardinia Shire to obtain financial support.
There are also state and federal grants available. Some of these grants will be closing this month, so don't miss out on taking advantage of them!
In this issue, we have included informative articles on relevant topics for your business. We explore the latest business trends for 2024, responsible AI practices, the Commonwealth Supplier Code of Conduct, and frequently asked questions by business start-ups.
We hope you find this edition valuable and full of insights. To ensure you don't miss out on these exciting opportunities, please book your spot and mark your calendar for the upcoming workshops and mentoring sessions.
Local workshops
FREE Business Planning Workshop
Have you thought about attending a free 2-day Business Plan Accelerator Workshop? It's designed to help you create a comprehensive business plan that aligns with your goals. You'll gain valuable knowledge and advice and receive feedback from an experienced business advisor.
Workshop details:
Cost: Free
Date: 19 & 20 February 2024
Time: 8:45am to 3:30pm
Location: Toomah Community Centre,
18 Golden Green Street, Pakenham
Disability Confident Workplaces Workshop
Learn about how increasing your workplace's disability confidence means a supportive, positive, and inclusive environment for all, helping to lower insurance and workers' compensation costs.
Workshop details:
Cost: Free
Date: 27 February 2024
Time: 8:30am to 11.30am
Location: Cardinia Civic Centre
20 Siding Ave, Officer
How to Thrive as a CALD Small Business Workshop
Join our free workshop for migrant small business owners and unlock your entrepreneurial potential, emphasising the vital link between wellbeing and success. Gain insights into recognising burnout, stress, and self-doubt while exploring tailored self-care strategies to boost productivity and creativity in your journey to business success.
Workshop details:
Cost: Free
Date: 16 April 2024
Time: 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Location: Cardinia Civic Centre,
20 Siding Avenue, Officer
Business Victoria Mentor Session - Emerald
Business owners can book a face-to-face session with a business adviser to help identify a clear direction for their business, discuss key issues and priorities, and develop a business action plan to achieve their goals.
Event details:
Cost: Free
Date: 30 April 2024
Time: from 10:00 am
Location: The Hills Hub,
402 Belgrave-Gembrook Rd, Emerald
2024 Cardinia Shire Grants
Applications are now open for the following Cardinia Shire Council grant programs:
Festival and Events Grants Program
The Festival and Event Grant Program provides funding of up to $10,000 to community groups to deliver community events.
Community Capital Works Grants Program
The Community Capital Works Grants Program assists community groups to upgrade Council owned and Crown Land facilities.
Wellbeing Support Grant
The Wellbeing Support Grant Program aids in creating and improving community organisations and projects for the benefit of our diverse community.
For more information on all three grant programs and to apply, visit:
Apply for a grant - Cardinia Shire Council or smartygrants.com.au
Government Grants
Enabling Tourism Fund 2024
The Victorian Government launched the Enabling Tourism Fund 2024 to help rural and regional tourism infrastructure. It has two streams and grants ranging from $20,000 to $500,000. The fund aims to test project concepts and align with Experience Victoria 2033 priorities.
Applications close:
28 March 2024 at 5pm
Distillery Door Program
The Hazardous Areas and Dangerous Goods Rebate offers distillers of alcoholic beverages a rebate of up to 70% or 80% of eligible safety-related equipment and infrastructure expenses, with a maximum cap of $50,000 (GST exclusive).
Applications close:
30 September 2024 at 5pm
Tiny Towns Fund is Closing Soon
The Tiny Towns Fund backs tourism and community projects like splash parks, bike trails, and public art installations, offering grants of $5,000 to $50,000 for towns with up to 5,000 people, including Cardinia Shire.
Applications close:
25 February 2024 at 5pm
Regional Activation Grants Program
Victoria's Regional Activation Grants Program invites regional towns to showcase local food and drinks. Applications are currently being accepted for the program, providing provides grants of up to $70,000 for events aimed at promoting locally produced items.
Expressions of interest close:
16 February 2024
Government Announcements
Commonwealth Supplier Code of Conduct
Have your say
Business trends for 2024
Read article
Safe and responsible AI
Top 5 Business Startup FAQs
Questions? Feedback? We would love to hear from you! Send an email to business@cardinia.vic.gov.au, or visit the Cardinia Business website.
