Boosting business to go digital

Queensland small businesses wanting to boost their business and increase their digital and online presence can now apply for funding under the latest round of Small Business Digital Grants.

Minister for Employment and Small Business Shannon Fentiman said business owners can apply for funding of up to $10,000 from today.

“I am thrilled that this funding will be a welcome boost for small businesses across the state,” Ms Fentiman said.

“These grants will help businesses to work smarter and make the most of online opportunities.”

“We want to support Queensland businesses to be able to embrace digital technologies so they can be more competitive and employ more staff.”

“Queensland is leading the way with the success of these grants, recently being nationally recognised by a Standing Committee of the Federal Parliament and it was recommended that a similar program be rolled out Australia wide.

“Since our Advancing Small Business strategy began more than $8.2 million has been provide in grants to over 1,500 small businesses.”

“Recipients of these grants reported that they expect to take on 2,995 new employees because of the funding already provided.”

“We will help small businesses grow and create even more jobs with the opening of the latest round of our Digital Small Business Grant Program.”

Helen McAteer, Managing Director at renowned Witches Fall Winery received a digital grant and her business has gone from strength to strength.

“We know how important it is for the survival of small business to be competitive online,” Ms Fentiman said.

“With the help of a digital grant, Helen was able to make their website mobile responsive and improve online sales.

“With the upgrades to their website, they have employed an extra staff member to manage email, social media marketing and website sales.”

“The Palaszczuk Government has invested $4.9 million to support almost 1000 small businesses under this successful program,” Ms Fentiman said.

“The funding can be used towards purchasing hardware such as drones and 3D printers.

To be eligible for funding, small businesses must have fewer than 20 employees, have an Australian Business Number (ABN) and be registered for GST, have a turnover of $2 million or less in the last financial year and be based in Queensland.

Applications close on 8 October 2018. For more information including application forms, guidelines, terms and conditions, visit www.business.qld.gov.au/digital.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT:    Inga Williams 0439 949 719