WHAT’S NEW!

Grow your business – Export to the world

For many small business owners, taking your goods and services to overseas markets can be a highly effective way to expand your business.  If you find that you are increasingly reliant on shrinking local markets, exporting can be a profitable and rewarding exercise. 

But what do you do once you’ve taken the decision to enter international markets?  How do you go about marketing your product in a country where it is unknown, and competing with other products with different pricing structures and varying levels of quality?

It’s difficult to know where to start, but research is the key. Successful exporting doesn't happen by accident – it needs careful planning and commitment. Understanding and preparing for risks associated with exporting before you get started can be crucial.

To begin your export planning for success, you need to look closely at the legal and political risks that might be associated with particular countries.  Then there are quarantine and customs issues, and not insignificant matter of financing your new venture. You should also be aware of other exporting issues including international intellectual property protection, foreign exchange and shipping. Also research how Australia's Free Trade Agreements can affect your export business.

The good news is that there are plenty of resources around to help potential exporters.  Both federal and state governments have export assistance services that can help you to develop an export plan, advise you on how to realise your export potential, and in some circumstances, partially fund your project.

A good place to begin your research is by attending Business Enterprise Centre Northside’s Import Export Course in Hornsby on 23rd September 2008.

Held in conjunction with the Hornsby Shire Council, the 1 day workshop will be held at the Council Chambers from 9am to 5pm.

For further details contact Neil Davidson on 9415 2630 or email becn@bigpond.net.au

Business Advisory Service (BAS) Deliverable – Year To June 2008

In the year to 30 June 2008, the following BAS service numbers were delivered across NSW:

11th December 2007 - "Business Growth through Effective Online Marketing" Is your website working effectively to increase sales and profits and build client relationships? If not, this workshop will give you the keys to best practice online marketing.

Some pictures of people enjoying "Business Growth through Effective Online Marketing" workshop.

29th October 2007 - "Certificate IV in Business Small Business Management"

Got a great idea for a business but don ’t know where to start?
Already in business and want to make it grow?

Sydney Business has been successful in obtaining funding from the NSW Department of Education and Training to run the first half of the Certificate IV in Business (Small Business Management) and we are awaiting approval for the second half.

If you (or anybody you know) fit the following criteria, then this is the course for you.

Are you -

• Female
• Already in business or you have a business idea that you would like to explore.

This course is designed to equip you with the skills to analyse a business opportunity, develop a business plan, operate and grow a small business.

Please note that there is a small administrative charge that will need to be paid at the beginning of each half of the course.

Click here to learn more, course information
To apply, please complete the Certificate IV in Business SBM form and return it to us.

19th September 2007-“Pitching to Big Business”- Got a bright idea? Invented something new? Need to know how to turn it into a Commercial success? Then come along to this free workshop.

Some pictures taken from the “Pitching to Big Business” workshop

22nd August 2007, Free, 4:00pm - 6:00pm, North Ryde RSL - "Grow, Develop and Sustain Your Business"
The Business Enterprise Centre - Northside BECN (Chatswood) is able to offer businesses a range of services and assistance. Whether you are starting up a new business or wanting to improve your existing business, your local BEC office can provide the support and help you require.More Information.
Click here for registration.

Our June workshops kick off with our very popular Import Export course on 1 June .

Remember to check our "Training Schedule" section of our website for a full list of courses.

7th May 2007-“Do It Yourself PR”- In this free workshop, funded by the NSW Department of State and Regional Development, Cecilia Haddad of Marketing Elements shows how to use PR to effectively market your business.

Some pictures taken from the “Do It Yourself PR” workshop

24th May 2007-“Pitching to Big Business”- Got a bright idea? Invented something new? Need to know how to turn it into a Commercial success? Then come along to this free workshop.

Some pictures taken from the “Pitching to Big Business” workshop