SmartHub stepping up for local businesses

Published on 19 May 2020

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Businesses and budding entrepreneurs across the region are being encouraged to take advantage of the courses, support, and events available through Rockhampton Regional Council’s SmartHub.

Rockhampton Region Mayor, Margaret Strelow, said the SmartHub team had been working extra hard during the COVID-19 crisis to provide support to businesses across the region.

“Since the COVID-19 restrictions kicked in the team really have gone above and beyond to quickly move everything online and create a new program of events,” said Mayor Strelow.

“Just this week they have launched a Facebook series called Get It Done In Business, which provides practical tips to help your business survive, thrive, and grow.

“This is on top of their weekly HubLives which have been focussing on helping our business community adopt modern best business practice and the use of technology.

“There have been some brilliant guests on the HubLives – including Leanne Kemp, Chief Entrepreneur of Queensland – and topics have included mental health, managing teams remotely, and tech tools you can use to get your business online.

“The SmartHub also holds monthly lunch and learn events, which of course have been virtual versions more recently, and is continuing to run the METS Accelerator Program and the Turbo-Traction Lab which I’ve spoken about before.

“They are quiet achievers – they just get on with it and get stuff done. But I’d like to give them a loud cheer and make sure everyone in our region knows about this fantastic resource.”

Mayor Strelow said local small businesses and entrepreneurs should sign up as members if they hadn’t already.

“Some of these fantastic initiatives are available for free to anyone, but some are for members only.

“If you aren’t a member of the SmartHub now is a really great time to join, as it’s free at the moment rather than the usual $51 a month (which is already excellent value!).

“Members can access private slack and facebook groups, get mentoring from our SmartHub Business Coach Elize Hattin, join in the daily member co-working catch ups, and take part in the Capricornia Chamber of Commerce weekly coffee chats.

“I honestly can’t think of a good reason for anyone to not take advantage of this offer right now. If you’re running a start-up or business, or want to, it’s time for you to join the SmartHub community.”

The SmartHub is an initiative of Rockhampton Regional Council and is a high-tech co-working facility located in the heritage listed Customs House. The SmartHub is specifically geared at helping start-ups in our region to maximise early-stage business success. For more information about the SmartHub, visit the website, head to their facebook page, call 4936 8444 or email the SmartHub at smarthub@rrc.qld.gov.au.