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May 2025
Business on Redlands Coast
Economic development updates to support local businesses.
Small business month on Redlands Coast
May marks Queensland Small Business Month – an opportunity for small businesses across the state to take part in an exciting program to Recharge, Renew and Rebuild. Locally, Redland City Council has partnered with our Chambers of Commerce to offer a mainland workshop and two island events:
AI Tools for Business Productivity workshop
This workshop will focus on getting businesses ‘future ready’ and looking at how artificial intelligence (AI) can be harnessed to enhance productivity.
When: Thursday 15 May, 8.30am to 1pm Where: Alexandra Hills Hotel
Meet the buyer
These island-based events are themed around ‘local buy’ opportunities, offering island businesses a chance to learn more about how to become a local government supplier.
When: Wednesday 21 May, 4pm to 5.30pm Where: Straddie Sharks Club, Dunwich
When: Friday 23 May, 1pm to 2.30pm Where: Russell Island Recreation Hall
For more information and to book, visit Business workshops and events | Redland City Council. To find out about more Queensland Small Business Month events, visit business.qld.gov.au/qsbm
Redlands Coast AdventureFest
Get ready for AdventureFest!
From 16 to 25 May, Redland City Council in partnership with local tourism operators and event organisers will promote our naturally wonderful Redlands Coast with an action-packed program of epic events and experiences, which together, represent the inaugural Redlands Coast AdventureFest!
Visitors and residents will be invited to explore, connect and celebrate our city and our fabulous local suppliers of all things active, artistic, culinary, family, nature and wellness. AdventureFest really has something for everyone.
As part of the festival, Council is hosting the Redlands Coast AdventureFest Fun Day, a free community event on Saturday 17 May, 10am - 5pm at Raby Bay Harbour Park.
Grants and funding
Food and beverage sector grants
The Food and Beverage Accelerator (FaBA) Training Centre, hosted at University of Queensland, is awarding Kickstarter Vouchers up to $50,000 to small-medium sized businesses and start-ups to conduct research projects that advance the food and beverage industry in Australia.
Tourism digital adaption rebates
Queensland Government's Tourism Business Digital Adaption Program unlocks powerful tools to help your business thrive in today’s digital world. Up to $2,500 in rebates, plus free support to improve your digital capabilities.
Ignite Ideas Fund
Advance Queensland's Ignite Ideas Fund supports the development of awesome and innovative products, processes or services to help make Queensland a major centre for Australian innovation and startups. Tier 1 grants up to $100,000 and Tier 2 grants up to $200,000 are available.
Disaster loans and grants
Queensland businesses impacted during disaster events may be eligible for low interest loans and grants to help them recover. There are grants for direct damage / clean-up and low interest loans including for essential working capital.
Business workshops and events
Workforce Evolve workshop series
Business Chamber Queensland's current series of free Workforce Evolve workshops is running until 4 June 2025. 90-minute weekly workshops are facilitated by specialist workforce coaches on topics such as business planning, employer branding and change management.
International Women's Day lunch
Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce, Redland Women in Business is hosting a special luncheon on 23 May 2025 to celebrate International Women's Day and the vast achievements of women.
Capability statement webinar
The Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning invites you to this webinar designed to help businesses develop an effective capability statement. A capability statement is essential for applying for tendering opportunities and can be used to support finance applications.
Business workshops and events
Redland City Council regularly makes available information about upcoming business workshops that are offered online or in Redlands Coast. Check out the calendar in the link below.
Enhancing community safety
Redland City Council is inviting the community to participate in workshops and an online survey to help shape an action plan that will enhance community safety on Redlands Coast.
Instant insights!
Did you know Redland City’s local businesses have seen a 9.5 percent increase in online spending compared to the previous year? This growth highlights the increasing importance of digital presence for businesses of all sizes. Industries such as retail, hospitality, and professional services are leading the way in adopting e-commerce and digital marketing strategies to reach broader audiences. With consumers embracing online shopping and services more than ever, building strong digital capabilities is becoming essential for long-term success.
Insights curated by Redland City Council's Economic Development & Partnerships Group. If you want to learn more about the local economy, contact us or visit the Economy ID page for Redland City.
