The Blue Mountains Regional Business Chamber has announced a series of new education and networking events for local businesses.
"We are all operating in an increasingly challenging environment" said president Mark Barton. "For this reason, the chamber is concentrating its activities on providing more education for our members, and more networking events that offer the chance to exchange knowledge and expertise between members."
The chamber has recently completed the first of its workshops in Springwood on "Automate Your Small Business" with a big roll up coming from Wollondilly to Katoomba.
Upcoming half-day workshops in Springwood and Katoomba include, "Instagram for Business" and "Digital Marketing Masterclass", all run by experts in these fields. Supported by Blue Mountains Economic Enterprise, Springwood Sports Club and Western Sydney Business Centre, these workshops provide vital skills for business owners operating in an increasingly digital environment.
Networking events include opportunities for members to showcase their businesses and knowledge to other members. Upcoming events include a panel of local solicitors sharing their knowledge of business law including contracts, intellectual property and trade regulations, and a past ombudsman explaining how small businesses can challenge larger businesses that fall short on their promises. In September the chamber will be supporting one of the Blue Mountains' highest profile businesses launch a new cutting edge product that "will change the way we live in the Mountains".
The chamber is also revamping its annual awards program.
"Planning for the 2020 awards will kick off in November this year, with the aim that our 2020 event will be more accessible, more affordable and will provide all entrants with practical feedback from the judges," said vice president Chris Cannell. "The awards program is one of our key activities, recognising and celebrating the achievements of small business in the Blue Mountains."
Chamber events, workshops and award programs are open to both members and non-members, with generous discounts for chamber members. New members include Ask Your Neighbour Cleaning Services, Nova Employment, Bohman Automotive, Quan Yin Healing Centre, Ascent Consulting Engineers and Elliott Turner Pty Ltd
More information can be found at the chamber's new website www.bmchamber.org.au or by calling 0413 956 591.
