Celebrating small businesses

SMALL business is the backbone of our region and this August, we’re celebrating the people behind these ventures who keep our local economy humming.

The Geelong Small Business Festival is back for its 15th year, and with more than 70 free or low-cost events on offer between August 4 and August 15, it’s shaping up to be one of the most practical and inspiring yet.

Whether you’ve just started a business, are juggling side gigs, or have been your own boss for years, the festival offers support, fresh ideas and expert advice – all in a down-to-earth way that speaks to the realities of running a small business in a regional city.

With 20 years of experience running my own business, Katos Fish Supply, I understand the challenges of small business ownership and there are many events that have caught my eye in the 2025 program.

With sessions covering subjects like finance, payroll, marketing, digital tools, staffing and artificial intelligence, there’s something for everyone.

One event that caught my eye was the “Think Like a CFO and Grow” seminar on Wednesday, August 13.

Hosted by Simic Financial, this session will give business owners tools to better understand their financials to take their business to the next level.

Last year’s event was a sellout, so you’ll need to book in quickly for this one.

On Thursday, August 14, local mentoring group, Business in Heels, will host a panel discussion entitled “Learn From My Mistakes”.

At this event, you’ll hear from a panel of successful Geelong businesswomen who will share candid lessons learned the hard way, proving that mistakes aren’t failures; they’re part of the journey.

There’s also a great session for those looking to increase the size of their business on Friday, August 15.

The “Apprenticeship and Traineeship Forum” will unpack how to bring young people into your business and the support available.

For anyone unsure about payroll compliance, head along to the “Be Payday and Super Ready” on Tuesday, August 12.

This session will give you essential insights into your superannuation guarantee responsibilities for eligible employees.

Marketing and mindset get a boost too at the “Confidence on Camera” session on Thursday, August 7.

The workshop is perfect for small business owners who want to create videos and promote their services online.

Meanwhile, the “AI for Business Leaders” will demystify artificial intelligence and show how it can make your business more efficient – without needing to be a tech expert.

The festival also includes in-depth strategy sessions like “Is Your Business Built to Last?”, which helps owners future-proof their model, and “Pitch perfect: Learn how to win more tenders”, which will teach you to write compelling proposals to secure more business.

What I love most about the Geelong Small Business Festival is how accessible it is.

You don’t have to drive to Melbourne or pay hundreds of dollars to get practical, professional advice.

Small business is built on big dreams, hard work and deep local pride and this festival is a reminder that, in Geelong, you’re not doing it alone – you’re part of a thriving community of entrepreneurs, tradies, creatives and innovators.

So, if you’ve got a business or even just an idea, check out the full program at geelongaustralia.com.au/SmallBusiness Festival and register for a session.

Cr Andrew Katos Deakin Ward, City of Greater Geelong