Council's Business Development Program grabs international interest
Wednesday 30 April 2008
The small business development program initiated by Port Macquarie-Hastings Council in 2007 has attracted national and international attention. American researchers from the University of Missouri Rural Policy and Research Centre will review the program during a presentation to Hastings businesses on 14 May.
Brian and Karen Dabson, are leaders in the promotion of entrepreneurship and small business development in rural areas in America. The Dabsons will be presenting an overview of business development options to business and community leaders in Port Macquarie in the morning on 14 May. In the afternoon, they will be meeting those participating in the business development program in an interactive exchange of ideas.
Part of the presentation will focus on giving local businesses advice on various ways smaller regions can build and strengthen their economies and provide a wider choice of employment and business management opportunities for young people.
Economic Development Manager for Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, Trevor Sargeant believes the presentation aligns with the aims of the Business Development Program.
"One of the reasons for initiating the business development program in Port Macquarie was the need to coach businesses on providing additional employment and management opportunities.
"This is such a critical issue for Australia where there is a tidal flow of school leavers from the regions, including Port Macquarie, toward the cities. I think the presentation from the Dabson's will give local businesses a global perspective on this issue and hopefully some practical ideas for addressing it," Mr Sargeant said.
The presentation will be held in the Function Room of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council in Burrawan Street between 9am to 12.30 for the morning workshop. Cost is $30 including lunch. Afternoon workshop will run from 2.00-4.00pm but people are invited to come for lunch at 12.30. All inclusive cost $30 per person.
Businesses wanting to register for the presentation should contact Tamara McDonald on 65818633 or email
