Top pundits weigh in with first-class advice

MORE than 50 workshops, webinars and social events are part of this year’s Geelong Small Business Festival running throughout August.

The events offer a wide range of practical and interactive events that cover topics such as business planning, marketing, social media, networking and financial management.

Key events include “The Power of Positive Culture”, “Prioritising Local Social Impact — Is Good for Business” and publishing legend Ita Buttrose speaking on the Resilience Factor.

The festival also includes webinars from David Koch’s KBB agency and from Future Proofing Geelong.

Part of the State Government’s statewide festival and co-ordinated in partnership with the City of Greater Geelong, the festival gives small business owners and entrepreneurs an opportunity to hear top tips and tricks that will help them take their businesses to the next level.

Mayor Bruce Harwood said with more than 17,000 small to medium enterprises, the Geelong region was home to many inspiring entrepreneurs and business owners, pursuing their passion and innovating in essential and emerging industries.

“As a business owner myself, I can understand how hard it can be to remove yourself from the day-to-day tasks and pressures of running your own business,” Cr Harwood said.

“However, this event offers a chance to take a step back, check your priorities and ensure you are working the smartest way possible.

“I encourage all business owners and entrepreneurs to book yourself in to as many events as possible.”

All of the Geelong Small Business Festival events are presented at low cost or free.

The full program of the festival, which started with the Small Business Expo on Saturday, is at www.gsbf.com.au.