While Canberra Business Chamber represents and supports businesses of all types and sizes, it is currently prioritizing a number of initiatives designed to impact on the success and expansion of local micro-businesses.
Of the 26,000 businesses operating in the ACT, 97 per cent are small businesses employing less than 20 people. Of these, 16,000 are micro businesses employing one or two people. These small businesses are the engine room of our economy.
For its size, the ACT has an impressive number of businesses who are major national and global players. Most of these probably developed from small roots, and at one stage were simply one or two men or women pursuing an idea they believed in.
The Chamber wants to help others with a good idea build the foundations that will help them run a sustainable small business and perhaps grow in the future if this is their goal.
Beginning this month is the Chamber’s new Small Business Initiative, which is aimed at those who are starting out in business, intending to start a business or have an idea for a business. For just $99, this package will provide a suite of programs to support businesses transition through to the micro business level.
In collaboration with CBR Innovation Network and associated business support programs, the Chamber will help those new to business by providing access to fundamental business training and advice as well as the support of mentors.
Opportunities will be generated for those on their ‘start-up’ journey to connect with other people in business and potential clients.
Through their investment in the Small Business Initiative, new businesses, start-ups and business intenders will also be eligible for discounts on training workshops and Chamber membership.
This is all about building a solid base and turning someone’s good idea into a legitimate and prosperous business.
Businesses who have reached the ‘micro’ level – have one or two employees – are being recognised through a new Chamber ‘Micro Business’ membership level designed specifically for them. This membership will make it more cost effective to join the Chamber and reap the value associated with membership.
The Chamber has recently kicked off construction of its new Member Lounge.
When businesses are starting out or only employing a small number of people, their office may be in their home or an affordable alternative. This can make it difficult to conduct meetings vital to their ongoing business and expansion.
Canberra Business Chamber is developing a business lounge for the ACT. The CBR Region Business Lounge will be located in the Chamber’s current building on Northbourne Avenue. It will provide parking, coffee, private meetings rooms, printing and Wi-Fi.
The lounge will provide CBC members with a space to network, hold meetings with potential clients, and expand their capacity to secure business by partnering with others.
Canberra Business Chamber is positive a centrally located business lounge will help ACT and region businesses collaborate, be more productive and grow.
In addition, it has the potential to solidify Canberra’s place as the region’s business centre by expanding the reach of local businesses into the region and drawing regionally based businesses to the ACT.
Keep an eye out on the Chamber’s social media channels for updates on progress. We plan to keep you informed and provide images as construction of the Business Lounge moves forward.
Robyn Hendry, CEO
Canberra Business Chamber
Contact the Canberra Business Chamber Team:
Phone: 02 6247 4199
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.canberrabusiness.com
