Big ideas for small business

23 January 2009

Small business owners can take advantage of a new service which provides practical skills on business issues such as planning, marketing, cash flow, finance, staff management, training and customer service.

Hosted by West Coast TAFE, the West Coast Small Business Training Institute offers personalised one-on-one mentoring through its tailored Small Business Solutions® program.

Manager Tim Milsom said the service had attracted wide-spread interest since its official launch last November.

“The Small Business Solutions® program is about helping business owners recognise the skills they have while also identifying and suggesting innovative and simple ways they can improve their bottom line,” he said.

“We offer relevant, practical support and all of our skills advisors have had personal experience in managing and owning a successful business.”

Sandra Foote, owner of online food store Australian Food Merchants, said the service helped boost her confidence in the workplace.

“Owning a small business in the current market can be overwhelming, especially if you believe all the doom & gloom in the media,” she said.

“I gained access to an informed and experienced Business Skills Advisor who provided me with an opportunity to learn from their successes, as well as learn from their mistakes.”

The Small Business Training Institute has been developed by the Department of Education and Training following a recommendation by the State Training Board’s Small Business Advisory Committee.

It has offices in Joondalup and Fremantle.

For information about costs and other services telephone 1300 40 60 80 or visit smallbusinesssolutions.wa.gov.au