Boost for local businesswomen

TEN local businesswomen have been awarded City of Greater Geelong-sponsored 2024 Business Accelerator scholarships with Business in Heels to help start a new business or grow an existing one.

Maria Prusac, Hannah Lawicki, Quill Howard, Jess Hobbs, Elly Mirkovic, Laura Heywood, Marie Walker, Mariana Gaona Lopez, Octavia Chabrier and Sam Searle were this year’s recipients.

The support for 2024’s recipients was doubled, assisting 10 businesses across a range of industries.

The 12-month program is designed to empower women in running a sustainable business.

Business in Heels chief executive Lisa Sweeney said the women would learn from experienced mentors and receive tailored training.

“The comprehensive Business Accelerator program includes lessons, workshops and mentoring designed to set these businesswomen up for success.

“We will support these women by arming them with critical knowledge to build a profitable business with staying power.”

Recipients will receive training on business planning, cash flow, content and social media strategies, marketing and more.

They will also have 24/7 support from trainers, regular group sessions and an online course.

The course will also assist those needing help to refine their target market, promotion or pricing model to become more profitable.

Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said the city was thrilled to partner with Business in Heels again and congratulated all the recipients.

“Council is pleased to support you through this intensive year-long course that will help set you up for success in the business world, and we look forward to seeing you achieve into the future,” he said. The program has just begun and will come to end in August 2025.