A NSW Government initiative, Small Business Month is an opportunity to promote and celebrate the success of small and medium sized businesses and the critical role they play in local communities.

Mayor Ryan Palmer says Port Stephens Council is proud to deliver a rich program of workshops and events to celebrate Small Business Month.

“These events are designed to help strengthen and grow local businesses — from making business more inclusive and accessible, to helping owners gain a better understanding of what it means to be ‘digital ready’.

“Small Business Month is all about celebrating the critical role small business plays in our economy and providing opportunities for owners and operators to gain support, be inspired and connect with one another,” Mayor Palmer said

“It’s all part of our focus on making business growth easier in Port Stephens, so I encourage all business owners — or anyone thinking of starting a business — to get along to as many events as they can!”

Janelle Gardner, Council’s Economic Development and Tourism Coordinator, is encouraging owners and operators of small businesses to get involved.

“At Port Stephens Council we are committed to making business growth easier. With over 4700 small businesses operating in Port Stephens, we know that this is a very valuable sector of our local economy,” Ms Gardner said.

“Throughout October, we’re offering a wide range of workshops and programs aimed at increasing the capacity and competitiveness of our local businesses. This program has been made possible with a grant from the NSW State Government.

Bookings are essential. View the Small Business Month program (PDF 851KB) for full details of events or visit portstephens.nsw.gov.au