Small Business Month helping Port businesses bounce back from COVID-19

Small businesses will have the opportunity to workshop new ideas online, boost their digital skills and connect with other businesses in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic as part of the NSW Government’s Small Business Month.
Running from 1 to 31 October 2020, Small Business Month provides an opportunity to support and celebrate the successes and challenges of small and medium sized businesses and the critical role they play in local communities.
Following a series of devastating bushfires and the effects of COVID-19, 2020 has been one of the toughest years for many NSW small businesses.
With tourism as one of its key industries, many Port Stephens businesses have worn the impact of the global pandemic.
Throughout October, Port Stephens Council will deliver a range of online programs focusing on resilience, which Mayor Ryan Palmer says will support our community.
“We’re offering a wide range of workshops and events focusing on the people behind our small businesses and helping them to bounce back quickly after setbacks, and adapt well to change and challenges.
“Port Stephens is home to over 4900 small businesses who have all been touched by the impacts of COVID-19 some way or another — our local business economy is vital to economic growth in our region and it’s important we support their development and recovery during this time.
“While we have previously attended these workshops in person, thanks to funding from the NSW Government we’ve prepared a COVID Safe program online, giving the opportunity for our local business operators to gain support, be inspired and connect with one another virtually.
“I’m encouraging all businesses in our region to register for one or all of our available workshops — the more we can continue to strengthen our local economy we will make Port Stephens an even better place to live, work or play,” Mayor Palmer said.
Bookings are essential. For full event details and to register visit portstephens.nsw.gov.au