South Brisbane innovation hub celebrates first birthday

A dedicated space designed to help foster innovative ideas for budding entrepreneurs and startups is celebrating its first birthday.

Minister for Innovation, Science and the Digital Economy and Minister for Small Business Leeanne Enoch today helped mark the State Library of Queensland Business Studio’s birthday.

“The Business Studio has proven a great success with more than 400 people joining the Business Studio and working to turn their ideas into reality.

“During its first 12 months of operation, Business Studio members have launched small businesses, websites and apps in the fitness, recruitment, social media, advertising and lifestyle industries.”

Ms Enoch said Business Studio provided budding entrepreneurs with a space to network with like-minded people, cultivate ideas and grow their business ideas with access to State Library of Queensland’s (SLQ) resources.

“Business Studio is a part of the broader innovation network connected across Queensland, helping to give our local startups the opportunity to succeed,” she said.

“In its first year it has enabled entrepreneurs to incubate ideas and to see their plans come to fruition through access to resources, workshops and seminars with venture capitalists, investors and other entrepreneurs.

“Queensland has amazing entrepreneurial talent and it is initiatives such as the Business Studio that will inspire future generations, create opportunities, develop new businesses and add to the economic prosperity of our state.”  

State Librarian and CEO Vicki McDonald said Business Studio was a key part of SLQ’s objective to support new business and innovation in Queensland.

“The State Library of Queensland is committed to fostering innovation and Business Studio enables people to realise their ideas and help grow their businesses,” Ms McDonald said.

“We strive to provide a supportive environment that assists businesses right from when they start, through to growth, expansion and employment,” she said.

Business Studio runs workshops and lunch box forums focusing on topics such as marketing, funding and cultural awareness as well as the Entrepreneur in Residence program in partnership with Little Tokyo Two. It also offers free Wi-Fi, bookable powered work stations and lounge areas and loanable business resources.

An online hub includes a range of industry and essential guides on a variety of topics such as starting a business, tips and advice on obtaining finance, registrations and licences, protecting intellectual property, tax obligations, franchising and legal considerations.

It is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and is accessible to Business Studio members. To become a member, register online at slq.qld.gov.au/services/membership.

Media contact: Daniel Lato 0438 830 201