Start-up Ecosystem to boost business sustainability

March 5, 2013

Did you know only 60 per cent of businesses operating in Australia in June 2007 were still in operation in June 2011?

While some of these closures were by choice, the reality is that Australian businesses are facing a challenging economic climate…and it seems times are toughest for start-up businesses.

Maroochydore Chamber of Commerce President Ross Hepworth said study results recently released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) showed the survival rates for new businesses were significantly lower than for already established businesses.

“I think small businesses often underestimate how vulnerable they are in the first couple of years and if we can help them through the start-up period, their chances of survival are that much greater,” Mr Hepworth said.

With this in mind, Sunshine Coast Business and Workstyle Expo coordinators have designed a specialist section of the 2013 Expo that will assist entrepreneurial start-up businesses to establish solid foundations to stay in operation for the long term.

“We have developed the Start-Up Ecosystem, which provides almost $4,000 worth of business support resources and services to a handful of local start-up businesses at a heavily subsidised rate,” Mr Hepworth said.

“Some of the offerings include a teleworking workspace package, business development workshop, mentor package and print advertising package to assist with obtaining long term sustainability.”

“Business operators will also able to raise their profile amongst attendees and other businesses via an exhibitor booth and various networking opportunities.”

Mr Hepworth said the Start-Up Ecosystem package would be available to a handful of budding entrepreneurs, innovators and start-up businesses, with interested parties required to submit an application form by 2 April.

“A panel of industry professionals will review the applications and determine the successful candidates,” Mr Hepworth said.

“With start-up business owners set to learn valuable skills regarding attracting investors, managing cash flow, brand promotion, staff development and production growth, we expect interest in the Start-Up Ecosystem will be strong.”

The Start-Up Ecosystem will be delivered in conjunction with Sunshine Coast Council and the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast and will be based at The Big Pineapple throughout the two-day Expo on 10 and 11 May.

“We’re looking closely at ways we can best cater to the needs of local business owners and operators at this year’s Expo, and we’re confident this is a step in the right direction for all the start-up businesses and entrepreneurs who need a helping hand,” Mr Hepworth said.

“Having these budding business owners showcase their business concept at the Expo enables them to secure mentors and potentially funding, speeding their journey towards profitability and long term sustainability.”

Applications to be involved with the Start-up Ecosystem are now open and can be accessed via www.scbizexpo.org.

For more information regarding the Start-up Ecosystem or the Sunshine Coast Business and Workstyle Expo, visit the website or contact the Maroochydore Chamber of Commerce on (07) 5443 5661.

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