Blue Mountains based businesses looking to grow and expand have a unique opportunity coming up this November.
Blue Mountains Economic Enterprise (BMEE) has secured a one-off visit with key staff from Jobs for NSW. Six one-to-one interview slots will be available for business operators to speak about their business growth goals and get expert advice on the financial support programs available.
Jobs for NSW is a state government agency supporting the growth of businesses across NSW and provides financial support to emerging and fast growing small to medium enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups. These introductions will provide the opportunity to discover what is available and eligibility for those Grants and funding opportunities. Jobs for NSW offers a range of grants, loans and loan guarantees that match different stages of growth.
Helping to create jobs is one of the key reasons that BMEE was established in 2012 and remains the focus for the board and team. In addition, BMEE has engaged with NSW Department of Industry to identify ways that BMEE can continue to stimulate economic development in the Blue Mountains.
NSW currently has a strong economy and job growth is also occurring locally. Recent ABS figures show there are over 16,500 jobs in the Blue Mountains, however nearly 60 per cent of working residents leave the Blue Mountains local government area for work each day.
Jobs for NSW is targeting industries that will generate sustainable employment across the state. A number of specific industries they have identified have particular relevance for the Blue Mountains, namely tourism, exports to Asia of food and quality goods, digital innovation, environmental innovation, international education and creative industries.
Each of these fit well into BMEE’s identified four pillars of strategic focus:
- World Heritage Industries (which includes Tourism and Food)
- Creative Industries
- Education
- Health and Wellness.
Specific grants and loans are available for a range of businesses, from pre-revenue start-ups through to businesses turning over more than $1 million. Grants range from $25,000 to $100,000 and loans are available of up to $1.2m.
If you operate a business in the Blue Mountains and would like help to grow BMEE would like to hear from you. Visit www.bmee.org.au.
- Bernie Fehon is CEO of Blue Mountains Economic Enterprise