The Latrobe City Business Chamber (Chamber) has secured funding support from Latrobe City Council for the 2024/25 financial year.
Council has committed funding of $69,000 to the Chamber for the 2025/25 financial year.
The recommendation was moved at the August Council meeting, following a review of the 2023-2024 achievements. The Chamber met and exceeded its key performance indicators (KPIs) during this period by running five events, raising $85,000, and employing a Marketing/Membership Officer.
Employing a Marketing/Membership Officer has assisted in increasing membership, as well as sourcing sponsorship and managing events that will continue to assist in building a revenue base for future self-reliance and growth of the organisation.
The Chamber is working towards becoming the premier business networking, support and representation organisation with a strong membership base, and well-established networks across all sectors. Their vision is to create a thriving and interconnected business community, where local businesses flourish, exchange ideas, and access the resources they need to succeed.
Mayor of Latrobe City Council, Councillor Darren Howe, said the Chamber is an important addition to the ongoing success and prosperity of the business community and local economy in Latrobe City.
"Council's decision to support the Chamber with a one-off grant for the 2024/25 financial year is not just an investment in the Chamber, but in the future of local businesses," said the Mayor.
"The Chamber serves as a powerful advocate for innovation, collaboration and growth within our business community through offering access to valuable training, resources and networking opportunities.
"We are and will continue to be committed to building partnerships with the Latrobe City Chamber and our local businesses to create a supportive, sustainable and resilient environment where they can achieve ongoing success."
Revised KPIs for this financial year include running 15 events, delivering four training opportunities, raising over $100,000 and developing a robust financial sustainability plan. The new agreement and its parameters will be reviewed in August 2025.
