At the Weroona Hotel, Wallaroo, South Australia, on Friday, November 29, Sea To Valley Startups held a gathering for small businesses in the Yorke Peninsula area. The focus was on networking and advice across a variety of topics for those who attended.
Under Scott Perry’s guidance, the participants were given advice on websites, advertising, marketing, SEO and various technologies. The collegiate atmosphere of the group enabled assistance and knowledge to be shared by all participants. The mood was friendly, but the work was serious and the advice was all very good and could be applied across all the businesses represented.
Anthony Grundel from the Department for Trade and Investment also spoke on how the state and federal governments can give assistance to small businesses, and the sorts of assistance available from a number of government departments. Examples of successful businesses and some of the pitfalls – especially when dealing with international clients or customers – were spelled out, but also how the departments could assist if problems did arise.
Following the meeting, lunch was provided, with many extra people attending. As a part of this, those present shared the concepts and functions of their small businesses, established, new and potential. Working within an “elevator pitch” format, the time given to each participant was short (one minute, ideally done in thirty seconds), which is great practice for having to do this was someone who does not have a lot of time to talk. The businesses represented included those involved in: cooking and food, quilting, sales, education, writing, retail selling, art, computing services, holistic therapies, work involving houses, and many other burgeoning ideas. The range was large and crossed many different industries. There was also a representative from Sureway Employment and Training present for the afternoon, NBN Co as well as Anthony. Answering questions from those present, representing themselves very professionally, with friendliness and approachability.
This where the networking aspect comes in, as while the meal was eaten and afterwards, participants exchanged contact details, utilising the businesses and experience everyone must help themselves, and extend the reach of their businesses. This was probably the most important part of the whole afternoon, organically started and carried on by the participants themselves.
Sea To Valley Startups is an organisation whose main concern is to assist those who do not necessarily fit into traditional employment pathways to get into viable self-employed spaces. Events such as the one held at the Weroona Hotel can only add to the success of these businesses and help the wider community as a result.
Written by Streeter