In the news:

Survey Responses to the 2013 Western Downs Business Capability Study close tomorrow, Wednesday 22 May.  Complete and send your response now before the 1:00pm deadline.

Visit the ‘in place’ for local business

The Western Downs free Innovation Advisory Service – operated through the Western Downs Economic Innovation Zone – is becoming the ‘in place’ for local businesses on the search for future business growth.

The service’s three highly experienced business advisors have been in strong demand, with hot topics during client appointments covering everything from selling skills, marketing and merchandising to sourcing additional streams of income.

During May, the advisors reported an increase in take-up of the WDEIZ program by "start-ups" and business owners really wanting to bounce around ideas.

The value of the service is continuing to spread, with businesses that have utilised the service recommending it to others, resulting in the majority of bookings for consultations coming through word of mouth.

Clients have found the service to be particularly beneficial as it provides:

  • A source of unbiased advice
  • Access to experts who have been exposed to a wide variety of industries
  • Referrals to government resources
  • A means for business operators to positively grow theirs concepts into solid enterprises.

Valuable referrals during May included to the DEEDI Tendering for Business workshop held in Chinchilla on 30 May and to the AusIndustry Clean Technology Program - an $800 million, merit based grants program to support Australian manufacturers to maintain competitiveness in a carbon constrained economy.

The Clean Technology Program will provide grants for investments in energy efficient capital equipment and low emission technologies, processes and products. The innovation services advisors are encouraging local businesses to check out the program at:

http://www.ausindustry.gov.au/programs/CleanTechnology/CleanTechnologyInvestment/Pages/default.aspx

The establishment of the WDEIZ by Western Downs Regional Council has made the Innovation Advisory Service as one-stop shop for information, advice and referrals for local businesses.

To enquire about the WDEIZ or to make an appointment for a free one-hour consultation with a Business Advisor, contact your local Chamber of Commerce:  

  • Chinchilla:  (07) 4668 9172
  • Dalby: (07) 4662 4050
  • Jandowae: 0437 713 445
  • Miles: 0437 113 425
  • Tara: 0437 105 287
  • Wandoan: 0437 105 219