Planting seeds for better business

THE State Government has contributed $70,000 to support a program which enables businesses in the Shellharbour area to prosper.

The "Economic Gardening Program" aims to identify emerging business people with a strong desire to grow their business.

Member of the Corporate Planning Department, Christine Matesic, said the program is based on a USA model which showed "dramatic growth in employment opportunities" as a result.

A business "?boot camp' was held for the fifty applicants and the businesses which stood out most were chosen.

The thirty seven businesses selected to participate are provided with professional business assistance with workshops conducted each month on topics including business planning for growth, E-commerce and marketing.

Member for Shellharbour. Lylea McMahon, is in strong support of the program.

"It is very encouraging to see small to medium size enterprises getting involved in this initiative especially those interested in growing their business in a vibrant and diverse local economy," Ms McMahon said.

"Participants are able to gain an objective view of the health of their business, gain professional help with marketing strategies, receive assistance with business and financial planning and gain an insight into how they can better utilise the internet to help them prosper."

Oak Flats Electronics is one of the businesses selected for the program.

Owner Jarrod Carter said that while growing his business is his main objective, it also provides great mentoring support from those with expertise in business.

"It's fantastic for networking, marketing and development of staff," Mr Carter said.

"It provides help, advice and guidance on how to grow a business."

The program will run over a six month period.