Unmissable events at the 2024 Geelong Small Business Festival

THE 2024 Geelong Small Business Festival is set to be an extraordinary celebration of entrepreneurship, innovation, and community spirit.

This year’s festival, running from August 12 to 23, features an impressive lineup of events designed to inspire, educate, and connect local business owners.

Here are some of the standout events you will not want to miss:

Launch Event: A Night of Innovation and Inspiration

The festival kicks off on August 8 with a spectacular launch event, proudly sponsored by Morris. This exciting evening promises to be a blend of innovation, inspiration, and local flavour. Attendees will be treated to a keynote speech by Nadia Lee, founder and chief executive of ThatsMyFace, who will delve into the crucial topic of ‘AI is here: Are you ready?’ Her insights will shed light on the transformative power of artificial intelligence and its implications for small businesses. Additionally, The Paddock, an immersive experience highlighting the vibrant agribusiness sector of our region, will showcase local produce and innovative agribusiness entrepreneurs. Find out more about the $25,000 Morris Business Class Finance Grant at the Morris stand. This launch event is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow business owners and kickstart the festival with a burst of inspiration.

Westpac Economic Breakfast: Navigating the Economic Landscape

Another highlight of the festival is the Westpac Economic Breakfast on August 15, featuring Justin Smirk, Chief Economist at Westpac. Justin will provide a comprehensive analysis of the current economic landscape, offering valuable insights into market trends and economic forecasts. This event is essential for business owners looking to understand the economic factors that could impact their operations. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of economic conditions, enabling them to make informed strategic decisions. The breakfast also presents an excellent networking opportunity, allowing participants to connect with local business leaders and economic experts.

Understanding and Harnessing the Power of Local Media

In today’s digital age, effective media engagement is crucial for business success. The festival offers a dedicated session on “Understanding and Harnessing the Power of Local Media,” presented by industry experts from Times News Group, bay 93.9, and Gawk Outdoor on August 20. This workshop will guide attendees through the intricacies of local media channels and how to leverage them to promote their businesses. From crafting compelling press releases to understanding advertising opportunities, participants will learn practical tips for boosting their media presence and reaching their target audience effectively.

NEXUS: Connecting Entrepreneurs and Innovators

The Nexus Clean Economy Showcase will celebrate the past 10 years of clean economy action and ponder the next 10 years on August 23; exploring the economic development outcomes from the clean economy achieved to date with Ashleigh Morris, chief executive and co-Founder of Coreo, as the headline speaker. Ashleigh is a leader in circular economy and systems thinking and will inspire businesses to revolutionise for a sustainable future. Presentations, panel discussions, and an exhibition of products and initiatives will cover innovation, advanced manufacturing, commercialisation opportunities, climate resilience, sustainable futures, transport and mobility, smart cities and design, circular economy, finance and investment and government and policy.

The 2024 Geelong Small Business Festival is more than just a series of events; it’s a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit that defines the region.

Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or just starting out, the Geelong Small Business Festival offers something for everyone. Mark your calendars, get your tickets, and prepare to be inspired.

Head to gsbf.com.au today to see the full program.

//SPONSORED CONTENT