Welcome to 2024 | FREE Business Planning Workshop | Tiny Towns Fund is now open | Regional Activation Grants Program | Government News | Business support initiatives
No images? Click here
Welcome to 2024!
Welcome to our business newsletter for 2024! We are excited to provide you with valuable information and opportunities to empower your business.
In this edition, we are announcing a FREE 'Business Planning Workshop' that aims to equip entrepreneurs and business owners with essential tools and strategies. Whether you're experienced or just starting out, this workshop will guide you in the year ahead.
We are excited to highlight the upcoming seminar on 'Disability Confident Workplaces', which is completely free of charge. This seminar aims to emphasise the significance of fostering inclusive work environments. We firmly believe that businesses flourish when they wholeheartedly embrace and harness the distinctive talents possessed by every individual.
Additionally, we bring attention to the Tiny Towns Fund, offering financial support for community-driven initiatives. There's also information on the Regional Activation Grants Program, Skilling Australia's Defence Industry Grants and Self-Employment Assistance Programs, the Victorian Sick Pay Guarantee, tips on working in heat, and a roundup of business support initiatives.
We are pleased to announce that the findings of our Business Landscape Survey have been published. The comprehensive report can now be accessed on the Cardinia Business website. Take this opportunity to delve into the valuable insights and analysis provided in the report. Visit the Cardinia Business website today to read it in its entirety.
Here's to a prosperous and collaborative 2024!
Local News
FREE Business Planning Workshop
Do you want to start your own business?
Are you wanting to improve your business skills?
Or, do you want to take your business to the next level?
Have you considered attending a Business Plan Accelerator Workshop? This free 2-day workshop is specifically designed to fast-track the creation of a comprehensive business plan that aligns with your specific goals and objectives.
By attending this workshop, you will gain valuable knowledge and advice on how to create a tailored business plan. Once the workshop is finished, a seasoned business advisor will be available to review your plan, helping you establish a strong foundation. This thorough process ensures that your plan is well-prepared and ready for execution, ultimately enabling you to effectively achieve your desired business goals.
Workshop details:
Cost: Free
Date: 19 & 20 February 2024
Time: 8:45am to 3:30pm
Location: Toomah Community Centre,
18 Golden Green Street, Pakenham
Government Grants
Tiny Towns Fund is now open
The Tiny Towns Fund supports local communities with tourism and community facility projects.
This includes splash parks, bike trails, playgrounds, upgrades to community halls and libraries, public art installations, and more. The fund is open to towns with a population of up to 5,000 people in specific local government areas, including Cardina Shire.
Grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 are available for each project.
Application deadline:
Sunday 25 February 2024 at 5pm
Regional Activation Grants Program
Regional towns across Victoria are being called to get creative and show off their locally produced food and drinks as part of the Regional Activation Grants Program.
Applications are currently being accepted for the initial round of grants as part of the recently launched program. This opportunity is extended to Regional Tourism Boards, food and fibre groups, as well as regional bodies who are encouraged to submit their funding requests.
Grants of up to $70,000 are available to hold local events that showcase local food and beverages in the regions where they are produced.
Expressions of interest are open until 16 February 2024
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Adopt Program
The AI Adopt Program provides funding to establish up to five AI Adopt Centres to support small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) that engage in international and interstate trade to adopt responsible AI-enabled services and enhance their businesses.
Application deadline:
Monday 29 January 2024 5:00pm
Skilling Australia's Defence Industry Grants Program
Skilling Australia's Defence Industry Grants Program provides grants to businesses for three years to enhance defence sector skills, human resources practices, and training plans.
It aims to reduce barriers for SMEs in upskilling or retraining staff, develop skills within SMEs in the defence sector, and assist them in establishing HR practices and training plans that promote lifelong learning activities.
Government News
The Rural Financial Counselling Service also provides essential free support to farmers who are experiencing or at risk of financial hardship. Call 1300 771 741.
Impacted by heavy rain?
Growers who recently experienced impacts from heavy rains across the state can contact Agriculture Victoria on 0427 694 185 or recovery@agriculture.vic.gov.au for agriculture recovery assistance or advice, including technical support.
Farmers who have been impacted by floods and have urgent animal welfare needs, should contact the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.
Self-Employment Assistance
The Self-Employment Assistance program can help you turn your business idea or existing small business into a viable business. The program allows you to choose the level of support that meets your small business needs.
Connecting with Self-Employment Assistance can give you access to a range of services. This includes workshops, courses, and personalised business advice and mentoring.
Victorian Sick Pay Guarantee
The Sick Pay Guarantee is an Australian-first initiative giving Victorian casual and contract workers in certain jobs up to 38 hours a year of sick and carer’s pay. Payments are made at the national minimum wage.
The Sick Pay Guarantee is a pilot program, fully funded by the Victorian Government, and will run until 13 March 2025.
Working in heat
When working in environments with high temperatures, there are considerable risks and potential harm that employees may face. If you hold a position of responsibility for managing a business or project, it becomes your duty to prioritise the safety of workers and establish a secure working environment that is free from the hazards associated with prolonged heat exposure.
Business support initiatives
Questions? Feedback? We would love to hear from you! Send an email to business@cardinia.vic.gov.au, or visit the Cardinia Business website.
