Geelong’s largest business festival enters new partnership phase

THE City of Greater Geelong has launched a new three-year partnership with the Geelong Chamber of Commerce to host the Geelong Small Business Festival.

The annual festival is held in August each year and promises to bring growth and learning opportunities to the local business community.

Deputy Mayor Anthony Aitken said the collaboration will enhance the festival’s impact.

“The partnership between Council and the Geelong Chamber of Commerce will support the continued evolution of the festival,” Mr Aitken said.

“Small businesses make up around 97 per cent of all businesses in Greater Geelong, meaning they are the engine room of our local economy.”

Mr Aitken also highlighted the festival’s role in bolstering local economic growth.

“With a focus on championing local business and promoting investment opportunities to drive economic growth in our region, we are thrilled to work together again to deliver the Geelong Small Business Festival.”

“Given we have so many experienced people in the region, I encourage community members in the business community to register their interest in running a session to share their knowledge at this year’s festival.”

Expressions of interest for running festival events opened this week inviting proposals for free and low-cost training sessions, workshops, seminars, and events.

The festival, now in its 14th year, will cover a broad range of topics including social media marketing, leadership, artificial intelligence, workplace culture, sustainability, and staff retention.

CEO of the Geelong Chamber of Commerce Jeremy Crawford said the continuation of the partnership was good for the region.

“Changes have been made to offer more accessible venues and scheduling, along with magnified focus on the learning opportunities for small businesses to grow and prosper.”