Business Assistance Program launching soon

Published on 29 January 2020

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Small businesses in the Horsham Rural City Council (HRCC) can look forward to better Council support when the Business Assistance Program is launched.

The Business Assistance Program intends to provide financial and in-kind assistance to businesses who have plans to start or grow in the municipality.

It will deliver skills development, provision of professional services, support through the regulatory process and other one to one in-kind support.

Expressions of interest open in February and participants must have a registered business in the municipality or be starting a new business here.

Director Development Services Angela Murphy said research undertaken, including conversations with Business Horsham, showed there was a need for mentoring and training to enhance skills and sustainability across the business sectors.

“HRCC now has a greater emphasis on business engagement and support and the Business Assistance Program will be a tool that connects the business community and Council,” Ms Murphy said.

“Our municipality is home to a diverse business community, and Council is committed to helping strengthen and build upon that already-solid foundation to ensure our region continues to grow into the future.”

Ms Murphy said all applications would be considered on a case by case basis and all discussions were strictly confidential.

“I encourage people who are interested to contact the Economic Development team to discuss how ideas from their business may fit into the Business Assistance Program.

“An example of how the program works could be that a retail business, which has been traditional bricks and mortar, may want to be mentored to transition to online sales, and the program can help make that happen.

“We are open to hear about all types of projects, large or small,” she said.

Have you got a great idea for your business? Perhaps you are looking to upskill staff or wanting to implement a succession plan? Maybe you want to invest in the Horsham Rural City Council and you’re unsure on how to take the first steps? We are here to help and we want to hear from you.

Register your interest

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