Frankston City Council | Build Your Business Program 2015

opportunity >> growth >> lifestyle

Melbourne’s premier business support program

frankston.vic.gov.au/business

Build Your Business Program 2015

It is an exciting time for Frankston City, with many significant projects coming out of the ground that will change the very fabric of our city. These include the recently opened Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre, construction of the South East Water headquarters, Frankston Yacht Club redevelopment and Frankston Park function centre redevelopment.

Whilst these major projects will help drive demand and generate interest in our city, Council also realises the importance of small business to the local economy. With 97% of businesses in Frankston City employing less than 20 people it is critical that Council offers a diverse suite of services that can help small business to take the next step.

Frankston City Council is proud of its track record when it comes to supporting the business community. In 2014, we were independently rated as the fourth best local government area in Australia when it comes to the provision of economic development support – behind only the cities of Melbourne, Sydney and Gold Coast.

This rating is due to the many and varied programs that are featured throughout this publication. Amongst them, we are particularly proud of:

• Buy Local (page 8): a scheme which links local business to Council contracts and other opportunities within Frankston City (including major construction projects)

• Small Business Grants Program (page 4): Frankston City is only the second local government in Victoria to offer a structured grants program of this nature, awarding individual businesses up to $15,000 via a competitive application process

• Job Matching Service (page 6): A free service that links local students and graduates to local employment opportunities. Your jobs can be promoted to over 7500 people

I encourage all local businesses to look through this publication and make contact with the Economic Development Unit who will ably assist you to make the most of what Frankston City Council has to offer.

Message from the Mayor

Cr Sandra Mayer BA GAICD

Mayor – Frankston City

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ContentsSmall Business Grants Program 4

Job Matching Service 6

Splash Card 6

Business Mentors – Experts in Residence 7

Comprehensive Local Market Research 7

Buy Local 8

Small Business Investment Program 9

Online Business Directory 10

Build Your Business on LinkedIn 10

Frankston Business Network 11

Frankston Tourism Inc 11

Tourism and Visitor Services 11

Frankston Space Innovators 12

FMP Business Awards 13

FMP Business Breakfast Series 13

Frankston TV 14

Monash University IBL and PBL Programs 15

FMP Careers & Jobs Expo 15

Media Alerts and Launches 16

Digital Enterprise Program 16

Build Your Business Workshops 17

Build Your Business Workshop Registration Form 31

Council’s Economic Development Team(Pictured from left to right)

Jack Hayes Business Development Officer (Industrial and Home-Based

Enterprises)

Millicent Bainbridge Economic Development Officer

Jonathan Reichwald Coordinator Economic Development

Hissan Kazi Property Investment Officer

Matthew Nelson Business Development Officer (Commercial Precincts)

Rachel Burree Industry Development Officer

Contact us:Telephone: 1300 322 322

Email: [email protected]

Search “Build Your Business Frankston City”

Website: frankston.vic.gov.au/business

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Frankston City Council runs an annual Small Business Grants Program. The objective of the program is to create employment and build a resilient local economy.

Businesses can apply for up to $15,000 to be spent on business growth ventures. Grant recipients will also receive all of the Build Your Business products featured in this booklet.

There are five categories of Small Business Grants:

1. Home-Based Graduation (home-based businesses in Frankston City looking to move into commercial premises)

2. Start-ups (any new business located in Frankston City)

3. Relocation (from outside the region into Frankston City)

4. Green Business (located in Frankston City)

5. Emerging Exporter (located in Frankston City)

Entering a commercial tenancy agreement (lease) in Frankston City is a key criteria under all categories of the program.

The full Small Business Grant Application Guidelines will be made available in the second half of 2015.

The application window opens for submissions from 7 September to 16 October 2015.

Visit: frankston.vic.gov.au/business

Join the Small Business Grants mailing list to be notified when the application round opens for 2015.


*The 2015-16 program is subject to Council approval

Small Business Grants Program

2013–14 Small Business Grant recipients with former Mayor, Cr Darrel Taylor

Frankston City is the first destination outside of the Melbourne CBD to offer a structured Small Business Grants Program

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Karisha Trading (Relocation Category): A food distribution company that specialises in products from Mauritius. The grant funding will enable them to commence manufacturing their own product range from their new factory in Carrum Downs. The business is relocating from Ferntree Gully.

Clair de Lune (Start-Up Category): A French restaurant which will expand the culinary offer in Frankston, run by highly sought-after chef David Mooney. Clair de Lune will use the grant funding for refurbishments and an opening event at 20 Beach Street, Frankston.

Container Save and Drumsavers (Green Business Category): A recycling company that treats and repurposes plastic drums from the chemical industry for other industrial purposes. It provides a positive environmental impact by reducing landfill and preventing chemical runoff from entering waterways. The Grant will allow them to fast-track product diversification. This business is located in Carrum Downs.

Peninsula Larder (Home-Based Graduation Category): A food manufacturer working in the molecular gastronomy field that produces a flavour pearl garnish for fine dining. It supplies both restaurants and gourmet food retailers and has the potential to be stocked on cruises and airlines. The grant will be used to prepare a marketing strategy. The business has just moved to Seaford.

Grateful Harvest (Relocation Category): A producer of Japanese health beverage ‘kombucha’ which is diversifying to other products developed in-house under licence from overseas. The company is relocating from Mt Waverley to Carrum Downs and intends to develop a food production co-working space within their premises. The grant will be used to purchase equipment and specialised materials.

2014–2015 Small Business Grant Recipients 2014–15 Small Business Grant recipients with Mayor, Cr Sandra Mayer

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Splash Card

Job Matching Service

Splash Card is a fast-growing youth engagement tool that encourages students to take up special offers and shop in the Frankston city centre. With a database of more than 7000, it’s the best way to tap into the youth market. Splash Card shares deals, discounts and incentives from local businesses. 15,000 Splash Cards are distributed each year, containing discounts at approximately 40 businesses.

It is FREE for any business in the Frankston city centre to participate by offering deals and incentives.

Splash Card also has a strong social media presence via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to an ever-widening audience.


“I found a job as a sales assistant at Peter Oram Shoes to earn money towards a school trip to France. Three years later, I am about to enter my third back to school season at the shop! It is a lovely small business and I feel like I am truly part of another family. Thank you Splash Card - you have one very happy (and not broke) student!”

Olivia, local student

“Hoyts has been involved with Splash Card for several years and it is extremely popular with students. This is a great program for local students to access discounts in Frankston.”

Wayne HarrisDirector, Hoyts Frankston

Find the staff you need with instant access to local students and graduates from TAFE, university and secondary schools. Council has a database of more than 7000 potential employees that live or study locally.

This is a FREE service that you can use to promote any job, from casual to full-time professional.

Council’s Job Matching Service assisted Seaford business Bayside Gas Shop & Plumbing in finding a keen and dedicated staff member. Bayside Gas Shop & Plumbing hosted a local student for a week long work experience placement which was so successful that they offered the student a permanent part-time job until he finished school and accepted a full-time apprenticeship.

Using Council’s Job Matching Service meant that both the student and the business could make sure the job and the candidate were right for one another – resulting in a successful permanent appointment.

Email your job opportunity to [email protected]

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Businesses can access a wide range of economic and demographic data for Frankston City. This is an invaluable resource for market research and business planning, offering both economic and community profiles.

The data includes:

• Industry breakdowns by employment and revenue

• Employment data

• Demographic breakdowns

• Tourism data

• Business counts

Visit: economicprofile.com.au/frankston

Business Mentors – Experts in ResidenceFrankston City Council in conjunction with Small Business Mentoring Service (SBMS) offers all Frankston City businesses one free* and confidential 45 minute mentoring session.

The mentors have diverse backgrounds and have either owned their own small business or worked in an organisation that has had strong links to small business. They are passionate about the role that small business plays in the economy, and acknowledge that it can be difficult to run a small business.

Your questions can be answered across a range of areas including marketing, management, finance and planning.

Comprehensive Local Market Research

2015 dates:

Wednesday 22 April

Wednesday 17 June

Wednesday 19 August

Wednesday 14 October

Wednesday 2 December

Bookings at sbms.org.au/events or phone 1300 322 322

* • Frankston City Council businesses FREE

• Mornington Peninsula Shire businesses $40

• All other businesses $80

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The Buy Local Program aims to assist local businesses capture more opportunities to supply goods and services to Frankston City Council and major projects. Since the commencement of the program more than $20 million in construction expenditure has been awarded to local companies.

How to get involved in the Buy Local program:

Tender and procurement notifications

Register a free profile on the Industry Capability Network (ICN) Gateway to receive notifications about Frankston City Council and other tenders and procurement opportunities. By registering a profile you also assist purchasing officers from within Council and the private sector identify your business as a suitable supplier.

Visit: gateway.icn.org.au

Buy Local

Case Study: Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre (PARC)

S&A Paving, Nepean Air and Ausfab were local businesses employed to work on the Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre, sharing $7.9 million of work on the project.

For Nepean Air, the growth in their business was significant. They hired another six mechanical plumbers as a result.

The aquatic centre job was one of the biggest jobs S&A Paving had done in the Frankston area, creating more employment opportunities for the business.

Council’s commitmentThe recently introduced Frankston Industry Participation Plan (FIPP) assesses Council issued tenders and contracts over $100,000 against local content and social procurement criteria which means that... Businesses are eligible to use Council’s business development services to assist with the FIPP component of their submission.

Procurement training and events

Selling to any level of government or major projects can be a challenging and complex process. Council hosts a range of workshops to assist businesses understand the government procurement process and how to respond to tenders. (See page 26)

Council hosts ‘Meet the Buyer’ project briefings to expose local businesses to the requirements and opportunities of major construction projects. Council’s Economic Development Unit regularly meets with local businesses to identify industry capability and connect to various opportunities.

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The Small Business Investment Program supports small business operators in Frankston City, whether they are looking to establish a new business, expand their existing business or relocate within the City.

Through our facilitation program the Economic Development Unit supports local businesses by:

• Providing a first point of contact for any business development or investment enquiries

• Providing up front regulatory information working with other departments of Council

• Providing support to Council departments where possible to ensure permit applications are accelerated

• Identifying and facilitating opportunities in Frankston City for business operators and investors

• Assisting to identify investment opportunities by providing economic insight and advice on market trends

The Spanish Bar and Restaurant in Seaford was supported by the program with guidance in site selection, early-on regulatory advice, an accelerated planning application and recruitment of staff though Council’s job matching service.

The Economic Development Unit is dedicated to creating the best possible environment for business operators in Frankston City. The program has delivered excellent results in its first year, creating 58 jobs and up to $15 million in gross revenue to the local economy.


Small Business Investment Program

“We found the Council to be very helpful. We wouldn’t have been able to open without their support”

Mary-Jo, Spanish Bar and Restaurant

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Online Business Directory

Build Your Business on LinkedInThe Build Your Business – Frankston City group on LinkedIn is an excellent forum to discuss local business issues and initiatives, whilst networking in an online forum. The group has over 500 members and it is FREE to join. Members are kept up to date with Council programs and events all throughout the year.

Maximise your local visibility and search engine optimisation with a FREE listing in the Online Business Directory.

An essential business tool, the online directory has 20 categories, lists more than 5000 businesses and attracts 7000 visits per month.

Maximise your visibility and join all the big names, service providers and sole traders and attract targeted customers and clients to your business.

Visit: frankston.vic.gov.au/business and select Business Directory

Visit linkedin.com and search for ‘Build Your Business Frankston City’

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Frankston Business Network

Tourism and Visitor Services

Could your business benefit from building stronger relationships within the local business community?

Frankston Business Network (FBN) is the leading independent business organisation in Frankston, creating a united voice for all business sectors. Our aim is to offer a wide variety of services to our members, including networking, development, advocacy and support.

Visit: frankstonbusinessnetwork.com.au


Phone: 9781 1422

Visit: visitfrankston.com


Phone: 1300 322 842

Key Services:

• Networking Events (11 per year), Social Networking Nights (four per year) Women’s Luncheons (two per year) Business Breakfasts (four per year) and Golf Day

• Advocacy – The voice of Frankston businesses

• Business workshops in conjunction with Frankston City Council. For topics see p19

• Business development and promotional opportunities

The award winning Frankston Visitor Information Centre is the home of Frankston Tourism Inc, the City’s Local Tourism Association, providing administrative services to the association as well as a place for member businesses to promote to both visitors and local residents.

Frankston City Council’s Tourism and Visitor Services Unit lead the development and implementation of tourism initiatives for Frankston and surrounds. Working alongside the Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism Board, the team is able to provide advice and guidance to your business on how to get involved with industry and leverage the initiatives being undertaken at the local and regional level.

Frankston Tourism IncFrankston Tourism Inc is your member based Local Tourism Association that currently comprises over 180 members who are primarily located in Frankston and surrounding districts. Membership is open to any business that has a connection to both the local community and the visitor.

Frankston Tourism Inc is the voice for the local tourism sector within the internationally renowned Mornington Peninsula region.

Key opportunities for your business are:

• Business Networking

• Business to business initiatives

• Advocacy

• Access to the services of the Frankston Visitor Information Centre

Visit: visitfrankston.com

Phone: 1300 322 842

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Frankston Space Innovators Council has embarked on a plan to fill vacant shopfronts in the Frankston city centre with creative pop-up businesses. Vacant shops can lead to decreased foot traffic and this can impact on existing businesses.

Council would like to hear from community groups, artists, home business operators and creatives who are keen to get involved in the program by filling vacant shops on a short-term basis.

The Space Innovators project will be facilitated through short-term licence agreements. A successful applicant will utilise the space rent-free, however will be required to cover the costs of outgoings. Some properties may require licensees to supply a small bond.

To be successful, applicants will be required to have Public Liability insurance cover for at least $10 million. If you do not have insurance, an Expression of Interest can still be submitted. Council is currently exploring options that may enable those without insurance to be shortlisted in the future.

Anyone can apply to fill a vacant shop. Council will determine the suitability of applications and will advise if you are successful for the program.

Please Note: As limited spaces are available, applications will go through a competitive assessment process.

Express interest in the program at frankston.vic.gov.au/business

the pop up shop initiative

Frankston City Mayor Cr Sandra Mayer, artist and photographer Jacqueline Goedhart and the Hon. Bruce Bilson MP.

Space Innovators shop, Uncle Arnold Art Bar.

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FMP Business Breakfast SeriesCollaborative partners

proudly sponsored by

FMP Business Awards The Frankston Mornington Peninsula (FMP) Business Awards will once again be held in 2015. There will be a range of industry and other categories this year, including new categories for Food & Wine, Agribusiness, Best Online/Social Media Presence, Not-For-Profit and Creative Enterprises.

Entering the awards in 2015 is FREE.

To find out about entry dates and information, please email: [email protected] and we will provide further details as they become available.

Frankston City and the Mornington Peninsula Shire make up one of Victoria’s most important economic regions.

Network with the region’s most prominent business people in a social setting while enjoying inspiring and entertaining guest speakers.

Frankston City Council, Frankston Business Network, Monash University, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council and Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism have joined forces to deliver professional events featuring compelling key note speakers.

With enormous growth anticipated in Frankston City, and the many lifestyle and tourism advantages of the whole region, these major events put the region on the map as the preferred business destination and lifestyle choice.

Cr Darrel Taylor with winners from the 2014 FMP Business Awards.

Visit: fmpbrekky.com.au

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Australia’s first community driven YouTube network, Frankston TV, showcases Frankston in a whole new light, with around 5000 views per month. Frankston TV is a unique advertising opportunity. It’s FREE to upload a film clip promoting businesses in Frankston City. If you wish to explore an initiative that could partner with Frankston TV (like The Voice of Frankston), we would be pleased to hear from you.


Local video producers are available to produce high quality/low cost promotional film clips.

Visit: frankston.tv and click on video production

Frankston TV

Local business Fun-key Music ran its singing competition, The Voice of Frankston, through Frankston TV by asking competition entrants to post their auditions on Frankston TV. The finals then become 30-minute episodes on Channel 31.

“Being able to tap into the advice of the economic development team at Frankston City Council and subsequently the Frankston TV Youtube site was an amazing resource for us”.

Over 7000 contestants, their families and friends logged in regularly to the Frankston TV site to watch the videos and read the comments of the general community. The Voice of Frankston facebook page also blossomed during August to December 2014 with over 800 likes during that period.

“Frankston TV has given us the platform to set up and promote the Voice of Frankston and subsequently, Frankston businesses and the community in general. We have added another two nights of classes at our studio in Seaford where we teach singing, guitar and piano – so something seems to be working!”

Jenny Wilkinson, Fun-Key Music

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Monash University IBL and PBL Programs

FMP Careers and Jobs Expo The Frankston Mornington Peninsula (FMP) Careers & Jobs Expo is the first major interactive careers and jobs expo across the region, for students, jobseekers, return-to-work parents and employees seeking to reskill.

The Expo provides opportunities for you to showcase your business as an exhibitor or come along and see the range of training providers and find solutions to upskilling your employees.

With forums, workshops and guest speakers, it is the hub for careers and jobs information.

FREE for schools, students and jobseekers.

Monash University’s Peninsula Campus in Frankston offers two options to strengthen ties with the business community.

Problem Based Learning (PBL)

The Peninsula Campus’ Faculty of Business and Economics offers a unique style of learning called Problem Based Learning (PBL). Instead of the traditional lecture format, students work in small groups, focusing on real workplace scenarios that can be provided by local businesses. This approach is only offered at the Peninsula Campus and gives students a chance to work on ‘real’ business projects as part of their degree, while the results provide fresh and innovative insights for participating businesses.

Industry Based Learning (IBL)

Industry Based Learning is a work placement model which is also offered as part of the Bachelor of Business, Peninsula Campus. Students spend two or three days per week over 10 weeks, on-site at a local business working on current projects. To be eligible for an industry placement student, businesses must fulfil the following criteria:

• Have a minimum of five employees

• Be able to provide the student with their own workstation

• Provide the students with work that is Graduate level / entry level

• Provide a mentor who has relevant experience to provide guidance and direction

Businesses are invited to discuss ideas for PBL projects, or to register their interest in offering IBL placements to Monash students.


Partnerships between education and industry will link Monash to tangible outcomes that contribute to the economic expansion of the region.

Date: Tuesday 5 May, 2015

Time: 9am – 4pm

Venue: Mornington Racecourse, 320 Racecourse Road, Mornington

Visit: fmpcareerexpo.com.au


PRESENTED BY GOLD SPONSOR SUPPORTING SPONSORS

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Media Alerts and LaunchesFrankston Council works with the local media to celebrate the success of business and gain publicity for new enterprises setting up in the municipality.

Both metropolitan and local media outlets have covered news and stories on outstanding local businesses such as the successful recipients of Council’s annual Small Business Grants. If you are launching a new business in the municipality or have a great success story to share such as an industry award, let us know via email.

Ask us to assist with a media launch for your new or relocating business. A well planned media launch is great early exposure and will often receive excellent coverage in local media.


Digital Enterprise Program In 2014-2015 Frankston City Council, in partnership with VECCI, is offering a series of workshops to help your business succeed online*.

2015 Dates:

Wednesday 15 April, 10am–12pm Improving business efficiencies online tools and applications

Wednesday 6 May, 10am–12pm Social media

Wednesday 3 June, 10am–12pm E-commerce

*This is an Australian Government funded initiative under the Digital Enterprise Program

Visit: vecci.org.au/business-solutions/digital-enterprise-program


Phone: 03 8662 5333

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Build Your Business Workshops

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Are you too busy working in your business to actually take time out to work on your business?Frankston City Council runs an annual program of business workshops with expert presenters to help you to protect, grow, develop and win more business.

The 2015 Build Your Business Workshop series offers a range of relevant business topics hosted by business professionals. This program will provide you with a wide range of topics to help with the growth, resilience, development and sustainability of your business.

Over 20 sessions are held throughout the year.

Build Your Business Workshops

“This workshop opened my eyes to the work needed in planning but also reassured me that the next stage of my life can begin” Brad Smith, ‘Business planning the key to success’

“George is clear and fantastic at translating technical jargon into practical examples” James West, ‘Are you visible online?’

Packages and discounts

• Four sessions for the price of three: Book any three of our $40 seminars and access an additional one free – save 25%

• If you are a current (2015) financial member of either Frankston Business Network and Frankston Tourism Inc. you are entitled to the following discount:

Attend any $40 seminar for just $30

Register one of three ways:

Visit: www.frankston.vic.gov.au/business

Phone: 1300 322 322

Complete the registration form and return to Frankston City Council.

Light refreshments are provided at most sessions.

“A great workshop, well presented and a good opportunity to talk through problems” Nick Hannan, ‘Effective branding for small business’

“Interaction, a lot of what was discussed is relevant to my business, from managing my staff to the way I relate to my customers” Kim Radenic, ‘From good to great in business’

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Date Session Page

Thursday 23 April 5 steps to marketing success for small business 20

Thursday 30 April Pricing for profit 20

Thursday 7 MayHow to maximise sales opportunities and capitalise on Frankston events, holiday and festive periods

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Thursday 14 May Business planning and strategy 21

Thursday 21 May Understanding your business numbers 22

Thursday 28 May Business networking – how to do it successfully 22

Thursday 4 June Digital strategy and online marketing 23

Thursday 11 June Online videos to grow your business 23

Thursday 16 July Social media basics 24

Thursday 23 July Overcoming red tape 24

Tuesday 30 July Tender writing 25

Tuesday 4 August Online marketing essentials 25

Thursday 6 August Financial health check 26

Tuesday 11 August Winning local government tenders 26

Thursday 13 August Winning government business 27

Tuesday 18 August Business planning and strategy 27

Thursday 20 August Start-up super session 28

Thursday 27 August Ten free things you can do online 28

Thursday 3 September Customer Service Excellence 29

Thursday 10 September Exporting the basics 29

Thursday 17 September Automation tips to make online easier 30

Starting-Up/Business Basics/Finance – Planning for the future

Marketing/Growing Your Business – Is there a right or wrong way?

Social Media/Your Business Online – Do you have a social media plan?

Winning Government Business – How to utilise opportunities within local, state and federal government

Workshops for Business Growth

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Marketing Finance

When: Thursday 23 April

Time: 6pm – 8pm

Where:

Frankston City Council 30 Davey Street FrankstonAcacia Room (enter via Young Street through the brown double doors)

Cost: $40 p.p. (inc. GST)

Bookings:

Book and pay online visit: businessfrankston.com.au (click on events) or complete the registration form and return it to Council (refer to details on the form).

Contact:Phone: 9784 1875 or Email: [email protected]

When: Thursday 30 April

Time: 6pm – 8pm

Where:


Cost:$20 p.p. (inc. GST)*Participants completing this workshop are eligible for one free mentoring session

Bookings:



Five steps to marketing success for small businessPresented by Jim Schaefer of The Schaefer Group

Pricing for profitPresented by Small Business Victoria

This workshop will include practical marketing applications that work for small business:

• What is branding?

• Plan for success

• Targeting – ready, aim, communicate!

• Strategy demystified

• Budget to invest

• Execution – the fun stuff

You will leave with:

• An understanding of branding

• An appreciation of how and why your customers buy

• How to develop an effective marketing strategy

• Items to implement in your business for immediate impact

Supported by a number of case studies, the workshop will include open discussions regarding issues that face your business – how to deal with them and turn them into opportunities.

Are you unsure of when to discount your products and services?

Is the price of your product/service maximising your profit and cash flow?

The Small Business Victoria Pricing for profit seminar will equip you with:

• Knowledge and tools to understand why pricing is not just a “set and forget” activity in your business

• How to avoid the five most common mistakes when pricing

• How to price products and services at the right level that will not only allow your business to meet profit goals, but also to keep or increase market share

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When: Thursday 7 May

Time: 6pm – 9pm

Where:



Bookings:




Time: 6pm – 8pm

Where:



Bookings:



How to maximise sales opportunities and capitalise on Frankston events, holiday and festive periodsPresented by Frankston City Council Events Team and Simone White of Chisholm

Business planning and strategyPresented by Stuart Lindsay of Pitcher Partners

This workshop will give you the tools to discover how you can benefit from increased traffic flow via events.

There are numerous exciting events held throughout Frankston City annually. Some of these include: Sand Sculpting Australia Exhibition, Frankston’s Christmas Festival of Lights, IRONMAN Asia-Pacific Championship, Frankston Waterfront Festival and Ventana Fiesta. Thousands of visitors flock to Frankston for these events and you should be involved.

These events create a great opportunity to maximise on increased traffic flow.

• Learn how to submit your expression of interest and the exact steps to take to get your business involved with our events.

• Create your own checklist of how to get prepared.

Who should attend? Any retail or hospitality business can benefit from this workshop and have an opportunity to brainstorm with like-minded businesses on promotional ideas.

Be your own tour guide and therefore offering your customers a better experience.

Work on themes and how to organise your own promotions to complement what is happening in your community.

Your business plan is your roadmap to success. It may come in many forms and can even be written on the back of a napkin or on one page. The form is not as important as the thought and discussions that goes into preparing the plan.

This workshop will take a close look at business and strategic planning, the basic elements that make up a good practical plan, with simple steps that get the plan working for you and your business.

In today’s highly competitive market, your ability to think and act strategically will determine the success of your business.

Your business plan is critical to help you succeed! Come along to the session and learn practical tips on how to write or update your current business plan. You will leave with your own template that you can apply to your business.

Growing Your Business Business Basics

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Time: 6pm – 8pm

Where:



Bookings:




Time: 6pm – 8pm

Where:



Bookings:



Business networking – how to do it successfullyPresented by Small Business Victoria

Understanding your business numbersPresented by Matthew Wilson of Pitcher Partners

Approximately 87 per cent of business in the market place today is generated by networking so it pays to know how to do it.

This seminar will provide you with all the tools you need for effective relationship building and business development.

You will learn how to develop a business profile and action plan to examine the attributes of effective networkers.

This seminar will enable you to take your business networking to the next level. By analysing your current networking activities and taking some simple steps to increase your networking confidence, you will be able to maximise future opportunities.

Business owners are largely in business to make a profit and, in fact, a very good profit. Understanding and managing your numbers can be challenging but is essential for you to be able to manage your business’ financial performance, operate on a daily basis and plan for your future.

It is about knowing which numbers need to be monitored, what they mean, knowing how to respond and the implications, and making sure the correct and accurate information is readily available as needed.

Have you got a handle on your:

• Profit and loss statements

• Cash flow statements

• Balance sheets

• Forecasts

If you answered “no” to these questions, this workshop is for you.

MarketingFinance

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When: Thursday 4 June

Time: 6-8pm

Where:



Bookings:



When: Thursday 11 June

Time: 6-8pm

Where:



Bookings:



Business networking – how to do it successfullyPresented by Small Business Victoria

Digital strategy and online marketingPresented by Assyl Haidar of Pitcher Partners

Online videos to grow your businessPresented by Chris Sandford of Action Video

Every business must be online in today’s marketplace.

Understand how being online fits with your other channels, demystify the language of the internet and understand what it takes to build and sustain a powerful online presence.

Setting the right level of investment to optimise the ROI from your online presence is a key aspect that must be carefully considered.

This workshop will address the most common questions business owners have:

• What is the purpose for my business being online?

• How does my business gain visibility in a crowded online market?

• Where and how do I start?

This workshop will focus on teaching business owners the value of video and how they can take practical steps to get started.

It will give real life examples of businesses who have transformed their business through creative online media. It will also give how-to demonstrations on using YouTube and other services for growing your business online.

You will also learn how to use video to build instant trust with your customers, increase your sales, brand awareness and social profile.

Your Business Online Your Business Online

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When: Thursday 16 July

Time: 6pm – 8pm

Where:



Bookings:



When: Thursday 23 July

Time: 6pm – 8pm

Where:



Bookings:



Social media basicsPresented by George Ligocki of Chisholm

Overcoming red tapePresented by Hissan Kazi of Frankston City Council

This workshop examines the social media phenomenon and why businesses are changing the way they interact with customers online.

The key to social media success is not to get overwhelmed by the tools and technology but to make the connection on how you can use them more effectively for your business.

This workshop will help you to:

• Learn the basics of social media

• Learn why it matters to every business ‘big or small’

• Learn how typical businesses use social media to attract and retain customers.

An information session designed to explain Council’s regulatory processes to inform and empower you to consider opportunities for upgrading or expanding your business.

Council’s Building, Planning, Health and Local Laws provisions may deter some business owners from unlocking potential opportunities in a new or existing business.

This workshop has been designed to provide an introduction to these processes and why they exist, and more importantly, assist business owners on where they can start and how to minimise potential hurdles.

The session is also a great opportunity to meet Council’s Property Investment Officer, appointed by Council to facilitate investment and development for small or large businesses.

This will be an open session where participants can raise any specific enquiries relating to their business or discuss any issues experienced with Council’s regulatory processes.

Your Business Online Winning Government Business

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When: Tuesday 4 August

Time: 6pm – 9pm

Where:



Bookings:



Online marketing essentials Presented by James Eling of Extreme Networks

The quick start guide to online marketing that you can action tomorrow.

This workshop will teach you:

• Why Search Engine Optimisation is better than Yellow Pages

• Ten things you can do to improve your website’s chances of finding you more customers

• Facebook for business

• Quick start guide to Facebook marketing that everyone can use, including one of the best secrets to convert prospects into paying customers

Your Business Online

When: Tuesday 30 July

Time: 5pm – 9pm

Where:

Frankston City Council 30 Davey Street FrankstonCouncil Chambers (enter via Young Street through the brown double doors)


Bookings:



Tender writingPresented by Anne Lane of VECCI

This course is designed to provide comprehensive training to business owners who provide products and services including consultants. It will provide you with skills in the design and development of tenders to win more business.

Topics covered include:

• Introduction – six critical factors in winning tenders

• Business writing according to Plain English standards

• Tender structural outline

• Essentials of a formal proposal

• Persuasive writing – write a proposal

• Executive summary – main message

• Detailed discussion of the Victorian Government Suppliers Guide

• How to source tender opportunities

• The bid – summary and response matrix

• Structuring the content

• The bid letter

• Writing tenders for government

• Tender evaluation criteria and process (weighting)

Winning Government Business

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Time: 6pm – 8pm

Where:



Bookings:



Winning local government tendersPresented by George Vass of Frankston City Council


When: Thursday 6 August

Time: 6pm – 8pm

Where:



Bookings:



Financial health checkPresented by Small Business Victoria

Finance

This is a must attend workshop to help you win more Council business.

Council tendering policy and procedures will be explained along with how to locate tender information and how tenders are evaluated and awarded.

The workshop then aims to support your future planning by presenting Council’s planned Capital Works Program for the coming financial year.

Attending this workshop will help you to forward plan in your business to ensure you are ready to tender and potentially win more Council business.

For many business owners, planning for the successful financial future of their business and identifying financial issues can be daunting.

This Small Business Victoria seminar assists participants in understanding key financial statements; how to read the warning signs; and how to take a proactive approach to managing their business through difficult times.

Financial ratio analysis will be explained in simple, easy to understand terms and examples provided will highlight the benefits of monitoring financial performance to improve overall business performance.

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Time: 5pm – 8.30pm

Where:



Bookings:



Winning government businessPresented by Small Business Victoria



Time: 6pm – 8pm

Where:



Bookings:



Business planning and strategyPresented by Stuart Lindsay of Pitcher Partners

Business Basics

The government business sector in Australia is worth billions of dollars and is one of the largest commercial areas for Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) businesses. However, in order to compete successfully for government business, there are strict protocols.

If you don’t know your RFQ from your RFT and you want to win Government contracts then this is the Small Business Victoria workshop for you.

Examining all aspects of the government procurement process, marketing to government, how to tender and how quotation responses are evaluated.

Winning government business will maximise your chances of producing a successful bid.

Your business plan is your roadmap to success. It may come in many forms and can even be written on the back of a napkin or on one page. The form is not as important as the thought and discussions that goes into preparing the plan.

This workshop will take a close look at business and strategic planning, the basic elements that make up a good practical plan, with simple steps that get the plan working for you and your business.

In today’s highly competitive market, your ability to think and act strategically will determine the success of your business.

Your business plan is critical to help you succeed! Come along to the session and learn practical tips on how to write or update your current business plan. You will leave with your own template that you can apply to your business.

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Time: 6pm – 9pm

Where:

Frankston City Council 30 Davey Street FrankstonAcacia Room (nter via Young Street through the brown double doors)


Bookings:



Ten free things you can do onlinePresented by George Ligocki of Chisholm

Free online services aimed at small businesses are growing exponentially. They are mostly offered free in the hope that it will build traffic to their own websites. You can learn from them and also capitalise on their free services.

At this workshop you will learn about ten free online tools and how to use them and hopefully discover amazing new ways of doing things.



Time: 6pm – 7pm and 7pm – 9pm

Where:


Cost: FREE

Bookings:



Start-up super sessionPresented by Geoff Browne, Victorian Small Business Commissioner

and Peter Doyle, ChangeXChange Consulting

6pm – 7pm: Starting a business and avoiding the traps • Are you starting up a business?

• Are you aware of potential traps in signing contracts, including leases?

The Victorian Small Business Commission (VSBC) often receives applications from businesses in dispute over commercial and legal realities. This session will explain the role of the VSBC and provide useful tips to avoid difficulties.

Geoff Browne was appointed Small Business Commissioner in October 2011. Prior to this appointment, Geoff was Deputy Director at Consumer Affairs Victoria for six years. His senior management experience includes both public and private sectors:telecommunications, finance, and e-commerce. He has also run his own small business.

7pm – 9pm: Starting a new business • Do you have a great business idea?

• Would you like to take that idea and turn it into a successful business?

Businesses that plan have a success rate of around 80 per cent. We will explore what you need to have in place and the quickest way to achieve it.

If you need guidance to set up your new business or to improve an existing business then this session is the one to attend. You will walk away with a checklist and templates to help you.

Peter Doyle is Managing Director of ChangeXChange Consulting and has worked with many international and national businesses such as GE Capital Finance, Warner Bros., Wesfarmers, DECA and Bosch.

Business Basics

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When: Thursday 3 September

Time: 6pm – 8pm

Where:



Bookings:




Time: 6pm – 8pm

Where:



Bookings:



Customer Service ExcellencePresented by Excel Business Coaching

Exporting the basicsPresented by Paul Dowling of Manex Australia

Do you impress your customers every time you interact with them? Does your organisation thrive on creating raving fans?

You must go beyond simply delivering your product to develop strong relationships with your customers. It is essential that you provide a unique customer experience by proactively anticipating your customers’ needs and exceeding their expectations every single time.

In this fun and exciting session you’ll learn to recognise how your attitude impacts on your interactions, apply techniques to generate repeat business, develop top-level phone skills and learn how to deal with difficult customers.

Keeping customers happy doesn’t just mean doing things right. You also need to do things at the right time, as defined by your customers. This means getting to know what they need, want and expect. Every single contact between you and the customer is important, regardless of its length or context. This session will help you understand the fundamental principles of good customer service practices, whether you communicate with customers in person, on the phone or via email.

The Excel Business Coaching Customer Service course is fun and effective and will improve the way you approach delivering service to your clients

Are you considering export for your company?

The weakness of the Australian dollar has presented potential opportunities for Australian companies to become exporters or expand their existing export activities.

This workshop is relevant to any business of any size and will help you to:

• Understand the basic principles of exporting

• Identify suitable regions of export opportunity for your company

• Compile a simple plan to efficiently and effectively approach these markets

• Understand the basics of export market entry

• Identify potential government and private resources that may assist your export entry efforts

Growing Your Business Growing Your Business

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Time: 6pm – 9pm

Where:



Bookings:



Automation tips to make online easierPresented by George Ligocki on behalf of Chisholm

Do you know how to automate your business and make your business more efficient and effective?

By automating your online business activities, it gets you off your computer and allows you more time to get on with things that you have perhaps been pushing to the side.

In this workshop you will learn:

• There are smart ways to automate online activity

• How to schedule facebook posts for the next 365 days

• How to schedule tweets or even blog posts

• Tools to help you publish relevant industry commentary


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Workshop Presenter Cost #Attending Total

23/4 Five steps to marketing success for small businessJim SchaeferThe Schaefer Group

$40 p.p.

30/4 Pricing for profit Small Business Victoria $20 p.p.

7/5How to maximise sales opportunities and capi-talise on Frankston events, holiday and festive periods

Frankston City Council Events Team and Simone White of Chisholm

$40 p.p.

14/5 Business planning and strategyStuart LindsayPitcher Partners

$40 p.p.

21/5 Understanding your business numbersMatthew WilsonPitcher Partners

$40 p.p.

28/5 Business networking – how to do it successfully Small Business Victoria $20 p.p.

4/6 Digital strategy and online marketingAssyl HaidarPitcher Partners

$40 p.p.

11/6 Online videos to grow your businessChris SandfordAction Video

$40 p.p.

16/7 Social media basicsGeorge LigockiChisholm

$40 p.p.

23/7 Overcoming red tapeHissan KaziFrankston City Council

$40 p.p.

30/7 Tender writingAnne LaneVECCI

$60 p.p.

4/8 Online marketing essentialsJames ElingExtreme Networks

$40 p.p.

6/8 Financial health check Small Business Victoria $20 p.p.

11/8 Winning local government tendersGeorge VassFrankston City Council

$20 p.p.

13/8 Winning government business Small Business Victoria $30 p.p.

18/8 Business planning and strategyStuart LindsayPitcher Partners

$40 p.p.

20/8 Start-up super sessionGeoff Browne, Victorian Small Business Commissioner and Peter Doyle, ChangeXChange Consulting

FREE

27/8 Ten free things you can do onlineGeorge LigockiChisholm

$40 p.p.

3/9 Customer Service Excellence Excel Business Coaching $40 p.p.

10/9 Exporting the basicsPaul DowlingManex Australia

$40 p.p.

17/9 Automation tips to make online easierGeorge LigockiChisholm

$40 p.p.

Build Your BusinessWorkshop Registration Form I would like to register for the following event(s)

Insert numbers attending in the columns on the table below and complete payment details on reverse

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Build Your BusinessWorkshop Registration Form

PAYMENT METHOD CREDIT CARD CHEQUE CASH Total $

Name:

Business Name:

Email Address:

Postal Address:

Postcode:

Phone: Mobile:

How did you find out about the Build Your Business Program?

Special Dietary Requirements:

CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS: VISA MASTERCARD

BANK CARD

CARDHOLDER NAME:

CARD NUMBER: EXPIRY DATE:

:

CARDHOLDER SIGNATURE:

SIGNATURE

Office use only: RC288

Registration & Payment Info

Register one of three ways:

1 Book online at frankston.vic.gov.au/business2 Phone 1300 322 3223 Complete the registration form and return to:

Frankston City CouncilATT: Economic DevelopmentPO Box 490, Frankston VIC 3199

Please register and pay at least three business days before the event to secure your booking. Cancellations required three business days prior for full refund.

PAYMENTS MAY NOT BE MADE AT THE EVENT

Payment can be made via the following methods:

CASHCash payments can be made in person at Frankston City Council, corner Young and Davey Street, Frankston, or Customer ServiceCentres in Langwarrin and Seaford.CHEQUECheque payments to be made out to Frankston City Council, and mailed with completed form.CREDIT CARDCredit card payment can be made online, over the phone or via the above form.

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Notes

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Notes

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Seaford >> Frankston >> Langwarrin >> Karingal >> Skye >> Frankston South >> Frankston North >> Carrum Downs >> Langwarrin South >> Sandhurst

FRankSton CItY CounCIL30 Davey Street Frankston VIC 3199 AustraliaPO Box 490 Frankston VIC 3199telephone: 1300 322 322 +61 3 9784 1888 Facsimile +61 3 9784 1094frankston.vic.gov.au

Frankston City Council | Build Your Business Program 2015

Documents

Transcript of Frankston City Council | Build Your Business Program 2015