Gold Coast mentor to play role in 2017 QSBW

Mentoring has given a boost to 148 Queensland small businesses in the past financial year, increasing profit and enabling them to employ more Queenslanders.

Minister for Small Business Leeanne Enoch said the Queensland Government’s Mentoring for Growth program had brought real benefits to small business, with the upcoming 2017 Queensland Small Business Week (May 15 – 20) to feature key mentors who have helped the state’s small businesses.

“Businesses that have participated in the Mentoring for Growth program (in the past financial year) have experienced a 12 per cent increase in employment, a seven per cent increase in turnover and an 18 per cent increase in gross profits,” Ms Enoch said.

“As part of this program, we offer eligible businesses access to a panel of business experts who give insight, options and suggestions to business challenges.

“This year’s Queensland Small Business Week (2017 QSBW) will feature the advice and expertise from some great mentors who will be sharing their insights across our digital platforms including the QSBW app and social media.

“So I encourage you to download the 2017 QSBW app and to follow Business Queensland Facebook and Twitter.”

John Maguire is one of the program’s mentors located throughout Queensland lending their expertise and experience to coach and develop businesses across digital platforms as part of QSBW.

The Gold Coast-based mentor and former Driza-Bone Managing Director will play a role in 2017 QSBW.

“Anyone thinking about forming a small business or involved in small business should attend,” Mr Maguire said.

“It’s a perfect marriage: the Queensland Government really wants to help small business and see it succeed, and small business operators really want the help. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.

“I’ve been in business for more than 40 years and made all the mistakes you can think of. Now as a mentor, I ensure small business operators don’t make the same mistakes I did.”

In partnership with Vodafone Australia and Australia Post, Queensland Small Business Week highlights the importance of technology, promotes a culture of entrepreneurship and reinforces to small business owners it’s their time to thrive.

More than 5000 people are expected to participate this year, with key events in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns, Townsville, Bundaberg and Mackay.

Ms Enoch said QSBW was an opportunity for small business operators to access key resources so their businesses can flourish.

“Queensland thrives if the small business sector is strong,” Ms Enoch said.

“To help, we’ve created a coordinated approach across the Queensland Government to deliver services and connect small businesses to opportunities, strengthened support for regional small businesses and increased collaboration and connectivity between government and key stakeholders.

“It’s never been easier for Queensland small businesses to access the tools and resources they need to start, grow and employ.”

To discover more about 2017 QSBW or to register your interest in hosting a 2017 QSBW event, visit www.business.qld.gov.au/smallbusinessweek or download the 2017 QSBW app

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