22 May 2025

In this edition of Business Link, learn all about the upcoming Micro and Small Business Day on Friday 27 June. Read below for program highlights and booking details.

Mount Alexander Micro and Small Business Day - book your tickets now!

There’s something new happening in Castlemaine on Friday 27 June 2025 - a full day dedicated to sharing ideas, skills and support for micro and small businesses in our region. This new initiative brings together local business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and those considering turning a hobby into a business.

With a full day of activities planned across several Castlemaine venues, the program includes expert panels, workshops, walking tours, mentoring sessions, and a business expo. Topics range from marketing and finance to sustainability, tourism, creative industries, farming, and more. There will also be opportunities to connect with others, share experiences, and explore new ideas.

Whether you're already in business, exploring a concept, or simply curious about taking the next step, this event is designed to provide practical information and local support.

All sessions are free to attend, with the exception of the evening networking event.

Workshops with limited capacity – early registration recommended

A series of hands-on workshops will provide practical advice and skills across marketing, finance, technology, and creative business development.

These sessions are free to attend but have limited capacity, and several are expected to book out early:

• Marketing Strategy – group mentoring on identifying your audience and building a clear plan
• Social Media Marketing – improve your digital presence and engagement
• Using AI to Boost Productivity – explore AI tools that can support your business or idea
• Generating Cash Flow for Creative Businesses – tailored advice for creatives

If you're starting out, refining your idea, or looking for ways to improve efficiency, these sessions offer useful, applicable insights.

Morning sessions for key local industries

The morning program at Micro and Small Business Day features a series of sector-specific sessions designed to support current operators as well as those exploring new opportunities in key local industries.

Sessions include:

• Farmers Forum – A practical conversation with producers and advisors on resilience and future challenges in agriculture
• Creative Industries Panel & Tour – A look at successful models for running creative enterprises, followed by a guided tour of creative businesses at The Mill
• Tourism Update for Accommodation Providers – A visit to local visitor accommodation sites, followed by a discussion about emerging visitor trends, expectations, and opportunities
• Circular Economy Business Leadership – Ideas for embedding sustainability and waste reduction into your business model

Each session is open to all — whether you’re currently working in the sector, exploring a new idea, or simply curious to learn more.

Evening Networking in Castlemaine’s Small Bars

To close the day, Business Mount Alexander will host a relaxed evening of roving networking across several of Castlemaine’s small bars.

Starting at 4:30pm, the trail will guide participants through a series of welcoming venues, providing space to meet other attendees, share reflections, and experience Castlemaine’s local hospitality. To spread the crowd, we have tickets starting at three different venues, and you'll be guided from one to the next, experiencing the hospitality offerings that Castlemaine is known for.

Whether you’re in business, considering your next steps, or simply interested in building local connections, this is a great way to finish the day.

Tickets are $15 for this event. 

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Mount Alexander Shire Council
email: business@mountalexander.vic.gov.au  web: www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au

Mount Alexander Shire Council acknowledges that the traditional custodians of this
land, the Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung peoples, proudly survive. We acknowledge their continued practice of custom and their close cultural, spiritual, physical, social, historical and economic relationship with the land and waters that make up
their country, which includes Mount Alexander Shire.