Two days, two free engagements supporting small businesses

Published on 08 May 2026

120 local startups and business owners have gained clearer direction, new knowledge and important connections at the CQ Small Business Expo.

Hosted by the Queensland Small Business Friendly Council of the Year, Rockhampton Regional Council, through its lead economic development agency Advance Rockhampton, the strong turnout shows confidence and enthusiasm in the region remains high, despite challenging global economic conditions.

Around 30 stallholders were in attendance to provide free advice across areas such as finance, IT, HR, training, health and safety, law and marketing, while representatives from the three levels of government were also on hand for face-to-face engagements.

The expo was followed by a free Business Planning and Onboarding Workshop this morning, delivered in partnership between Advance Rockhampton and Business Chamber Queensland through the Workforce Evolve program.

The workshop was held in response to two challenges identified by the local business community – difficulties in attracting and retaining skilled workers, and a lack of formal planning for small businesses and startups.

As part of Council’s year-round support for the local business community, small business owners are encouraged to register for Advance Rockhampton’s newsletter for practical updates on grants, workshops, training opportunities and initiatives.

For more information, visit https://advancerockhampton.com.au/

Quotes attributable to Rockhampton Region Mayor, Tony Williams

“With more than 5,500 small business already operating across the Rockhampton Region and the CQ Small Business Expo attended by plenty of startups, Council and Advance Rockhampton will continue to invest in workshops and initiatives which strengthen their place in our economy.

“The CQ Small Business Expo and Business Planning and Onboarding Workshop are a direct response to the support that our local business community has told us it needs.

“While we’re always excited to celebrate Small Business Month, Advance Rockhampton continues to provide a range of free resources and workshops throughout the year to help our businesses grow.”

Quotes attributable to Advance Rockhampton Economic Development Manager, Wade Clark

“Our role doesn’t end when an event ends. Advance Rockhampton is on the ground every day connecting small businesses with opportunities – whether that’s through our industry engagements, supporting investors and developers looking to establish themselves in the Region, or helping farmers access water to develop new crops.

“We’re focused on practical outcomes, which is why the face-to-face connections from the CQ Small Business Expo and the hands-on Business Planning and Onboarding Workshop are so important – particularly during Small Business Month.”