Narrabri business owners can learn how to put AI to work, sharpen their cash flow, and meet investors, with six free events planned for NSW Small Business Month.
Narrabri Shire Council has joined Small Business Month every year since 2018. This year’s program focuses on emerging technology, digital capability, tourism development, financial management, networking, and regional economic growth.
As well as the six free events, there is the ticketed Business NSW New England North West Future Invest Forum. Council is also continuing its support of the Narrabri Chamber of Commerce Business Awards on Saturday, 10 October.
Small Business Liaison Officer Gilly Goddard said the program was built around practical skills.
“Small Business Month is an opportunity for our local business owners to take some time to work on their business, build their skills and make new connections,” Ms Goddard said.
“Whether it’s learning how to use AI, improving cash flow, strengthening a tourism business or connecting with other businesses and industry leaders, we want people to walk away with something they can genuinely use.”
The events include:
AI at Work Workshops, Friday, 16 October. Two workshops from Regional AI Co. will cover practical uses of artificial intelligence, from useful tools and safe practices to improving productivity.
Visitor Economy Essentials, Monday, 19 October. Destination NSW Outback and Country’s Fiona Barden will share strategies for tourism, hospitality, and visitor economy operators.
Business NSW New England North West Future Invest Forum, Thursday, 22 October. Investors, industry leaders, government representatives, councils, and regional stakeholders will meet in Narrabri to discuss investment and growth across the New England North West.
TEBA Learning Lunch, Cash Flow is Key, Tuesday, 27 October. A practical session on cash flow and financial management.
Exploring AI for Small Business, Wednesday, 28 October. This hands-on workshop, delivered through the Australian Government’s Digital Solutions Program, will explore using AI to create content, images, and video.
Small Business Month Networking Night, Wednesday, 28 October. Local businesses will gather at The Exchange to connect and celebrate small business in the Narrabri Shire economy.
This year is also the third year of Council’s Small Business Spotlight Program. Twenty local businesses will receive free professional photography to build a bank of high-quality images for their marketing, and they will be showcased throughout October.
Council will also highlight its new partnership with the Australian Government’s Digital Solutions Program, which connects small businesses with free resources and events and low-cost one-on-one support.
Narrabri Shire Mayor Darrell Tiemens said small businesses were vital to the shire.
“Small businesses are a vital part of our communities. They create local jobs, provide essential services and contribute enormously to the character and strength of our towns,” Mayor Tiemens said.
“This year’s Small Business Month program is about giving businesses practical opportunities to build their capability, make connections and prepare for future growth.”
“I encourage businesses from across the Shire to get involved and make the most of what’s on offer throughout October.”
The full program and registration details are on Narrabri Shire Council’s website.
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