4 minute read
Local Chamber News
At the Montville Chamber of Commerce, sustainability is integral to our strategic focus, particularly ensuring business viability. This commitment was underscored during our Small Business Month General Meeting, where we invited experts from DESBT to provide tailored guidance on navigating challenging economic times. Joe Proctor stressed the importance of resilience and community connectivity, aiming to link businesses with vital resources and support networks to maximise their potential. We introduced our members to pivotal programs such as the Small Business Financial Counselling and the Burnout-Proof Plan to effectively manage stress and financial pressures. Our member, Everfocus, spearheaded a webinar on the Business Basics Grant, showcasing our commitment to promoting sustainability through various workshops and programs in partnership with VSC and SCC.
Networking remains a cornerstone of our operations, enhanced through joint sessions with Maleny Commerce, which fosters new income streams and collaborative ventures. By emphasising strategic location choices and robust customer engagement, we ensure our members benefit from shared experiences and collective growth, paving the way for a resilient and thriving local business community. Complete your membership application today.
www.experiencemontville.com.au/mcoc-membershipapplication/
BUSINESS YANDINA
At Business Yandina, our Chamber of Commerce champions three core values: Connect, Network, and Educate. By embracing these principles, we bolster sustainability within the local business community. Leveraging our extensive network across business sectors and various government tiers, we connect members with leading sustainability solution providers.
‘Visit Yandina’ campaign utilising the latest social media and traditional forms of communication that is literally putting Yandina ‘on the map’.
The more people become aware of our hidden gem in the Hinterland the better our business sector will perform now and into the future.
Furthermore, our proven track record in networking positions us as a vital resource for local businesses aiming for longevity. By drawing on years of industry insights and the expertise of successful business figures, we equip our members with actionable knowledge to achieve their long-term objectives.
Engagement in our networking and collaborative events offers additional benefits. Whether through formal meetings or casual get-togethers, our members access a wealth of solutions through collective knowledge. This collaborative spirit, ingrained in our guiding principles and culture, ensures that any business challenge finds a solution within our community.
www.yandinachamberofcommerce.com.au
At the 4556 Chamber of Commerce, we are passionate about helping businesses improve their sustainability practices. We actively promote the Queensland Government’s Ecobiz program through Business Chamber Queensland, which many of our members have successfully completed. We also highlight available sustainability grants, such as the current Business Boost Round 4, and provide education through events like our recent MemX in collaboration with UniSC and IML, focusing on implementing sustainability in businesses.
Innovation is crucial for sustaining a business, and we lead by example. Our Chamber has transformed our membership model from paid to free, opting for a sponsorship model instead. This allows us to channel our energy into supporting our sponsors and fostering innovative ideas. We provide resources such as B2B opportunities, encouragement, and celebration of success stories to inspire our members.
Community engagement is fundamental to business success on the Sunshine Coast. Unlike in capital cities, local businesses thrive on personal connections. We encourage businesses to engage with the community by supporting local charities or causes authentically and visibly. Building trust within the community is key to long-term success.
At the Maleny Chamber of Commerce, we are dedicated to enhancing our members' awareness and capabilities in sustainability. Our Sustainability Expos, now part of the Maleny Wood Expo, bring together experts to discuss topics from building design to farming and energy production. We also provide regular e-newsletters filled with information on grants, initiatives, and educational opportunities. Long-term business sustainability relies on several factors. Financial health is achieved through consistent cash flow management, diversified revenue streams, and contingency planning. Customer satisfaction and loyalty are built through excellent service, strong relationships, and effective feedback. Innovation and adaptability are crucial, encouraging continuous product and service improvement and embracing new technologies. Strong leadership, employee engagement, and operational efficiency also play vital roles, along with strategic planning with clear visions and realistic goal-setting. Our community boasts successful businesses like Maple Street Co-op, Maleny Dairies, Concept IT, and Frank Food & Wine. These businesses excel in sustainability through practices such as reducing packaging, recycling, using low-energy appliances, and supporting local producers. Maple Street Co-op stands out for its comprehensive sustainability practices, local engagement, and investment in sustainable energy production.
