How Whyalla businesses can sign up to Business SA for help

Local businesses are in for a boost after Business SA teamed up with council and Business SA to offer grants, support and networking. See how to get involved.

Local businesses are in for a boost after Business SA teamed up with council and Business SA to offer grants, support and networking.

Whyalla City Council’s 12-month business growth program will provide 150 small businesses full access to services that will assist in keeping established businesses relevant in the Whyalla community.

Business SA CEO Martin Haese, City of Whyalla Mayor Clare McLaughlin and Whyalla Business and Tourism Chair Malcolm McLeod.

“This program is designed to help Whyalla’s small business community to not only remain viable, but expand, generate additional income, employ more people and help the local economy thrive,” Business SA CEO Martin Haese said.

From September 2 small businesses in the area will have access to the Business Accelerator Program where workshops, hosted by experienced and successful business professionals, provide practical advice to seeking business owners.

Grants, tender support, staff employment assistance and networking opportunities will also be made available for those eager to advance their position in the market.

“We regularly discuss the need to diversify our economy, and what better way than by supporting our existing local businesses to excel,” City of Whyalla Mayor Clare McLaughlin said.

“This program presents a great opportunity to increase local employment while boosting the local economy, and council is making it even more accessible by providing significant subsidies for eligible participating businesses.

This partnership comes after Covid-19 lockdowns and restrictions were found to be having a detrimental effect on local business who called upon Whyalla Business and Tourism Chair, Malcolm McLeod, for support.

“Local business owners will be exposed to a level of expertise and support like never before, and will be able to focus on what they do best – running their business, serving the community and making profits – without needing to get bogged down and stressed over areas of their business that these experienced bodies specialise in,” Mr McLeod said.

All businesses in the Whyalla City Council area, who obtain a valid ABN are encouraged to attend the launch at the Mirambeena Motel on September 2 for more information.

To secure your place, register online or contact Business SA on [phone].