Local small business owners are being given the opportunity to strengthen their digital skills through a series of free workshops and one-on-one mentoring sessions, provided by East Gippsland Shire Council.
The initiative, delivered in partnership with Gippsland-based digital innovators GippsTech, follows the success of the 2024 Digital Confidence Program. The program is designed to assist business owners, farmers, start-ups and freelancers in enhancing their digital capabilities.
Feedback from past participants highlighted the value of personalised support, with many reporting that they were able to apply practical guidance and tools immediately within their businesses. The program is tailored to cater to different skill levels and business needs.
One past participant noted that the program's flexibility and accessibility were key to their involvement. "If this course had not been free and flexible online, I would not have done it. I thought, 'What have I got to lose', and now I feel I have made great progress. I feel quite excited!"
Mayor Cr John White noted the challenges faced by small businesses in the region.
"Small businesses in our region face rare challenges, from geographical isolation to limited access to digital resources. This program will provide much-needed support and guidance to help them adapt and thrive in today's digital world."
The workshops will cover cybersecurity, digital marketing, e-commerce, streamlining processes to save time, disaster recovery planning for digital assets, information storage and artificial intelligence.
Online workshops will commence in March 2025, followed by one-on-one mentoring for up to 35 local businesses, delivered by digital experts from GippsTech.
Dr Elena Kelareva, CEO of GippsTech, highlighted the importance of supporting small businesses in the digital space.
"We understand the hurdles that small business owners face when it comes to embracing technology. Through this program, we aim to empower local businesses with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in an increasingly digital marketplace."
Businesses can register via GippsTech's Eventbrite page, Council's website or by calling 1300 713 368.
This initiative is made possible through funding from the Victorian Government and Commonwealth Government under the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
