Written by As Donald Trump kicks off his second term as US President in January 2025, Australian businesses are bracing for a whirlwind of economic changes. From his pro-business policies to the likely trade tensions, the global landscape is about to get a lot more interesting – for better or worse. But with great change comes great opportunity… and great risk. So, which Aussie sectors should be polishing their gold trophies and which should be huddling under an umbrella? Let’s break it down: The Winners: Aussie Sectors That Could Ride Trump’s Economic Wave Mining & Resources Trump’s agenda loves coal, iron ore, and natural gas, and guess who’s got plenty of it? Yep, Australia! With Trump’s emphasis on deregulation and revving up the US economy through infrastructure spending, there’s likely to be a spike in demand for raw materials. Australia’s mining industry stands to benefit from his push for energy independence and infrastructure projects. If the US goes all-in on construction, Aussie miners can look forward to a nice bump in exports.What to Watch For: Rising global demand for Australian resources, but also potential volatility in global commodity prices due to Trump’s trade war antics. Agriculture (especially Beef and Wine) Trump’s trade wars might be harsh, but not on beef! While Australia’s agricultural exports have had their share of challenges with trade barriers, Trump’s unpredictable nature might actually open doors. The US is keen to secure its place in the global market, which could mean opportunities for Aussie farmers, especially in beef, wine, and dairy. With trade deals on the table, Australia’s quality produce could gain some new fans in the US.What to Watch For: Watch out for tariff skirmishes with other countries, especially if Trump decides to go all out with his protectionist policies. Beef might be a winner, but don’t get too cocky about other crops just yet. Technology and Cybersecurity Trump’s push for deregulation could mean fewer roadblocks for tech firms. Australia’s burgeoning tech industry, especially in cybersecurity and digital innovation, could thrive under Trump’s pro-business policies. His tax cuts for businesses could inspire US firms to expand their operations overseas, and Australia’s stable economy and skilled workforce make it an attractive place to invest. More importantly, Australia’s tech firms could benefit from closer ties to the US tech giants that Trump is keen to deregulate.What to Watch For: Increased competition as US companies pour more money into global tech. Aussie businesses will need to step up their innovation game. Tourism (for US Visitors) The US economy is on a spending spree, and Aussies are high on the list of tourists looking to cash in. As the US looks to rev up its economy, Trump’s push for low corporate taxes and a booming stock market could result in more US-based tourists coming to Australia. While the US dollar is expected to strengthen, it could mean more affluent tourists heading Down Under with deeper pockets. Aussie tourism operators, particularly in the hospitality and travel sectors, should be all smiles.What to Watch For: The US dollar could be your best friend or your worst enemy – depending on the strength of the AUD. A stronger dollar could make holidays in Australia more expensive for US tourists, but hey, we can always make up for it in good food and good weather, right? The Losers: Aussie Sectors That Could Be Left Out in the Cold Manufacturing If Trump’s tariffs hit US imports, Australia’s manufacturers will be sweating. Australian manufacturers are likely to feel the pinch of Trump’s protectionist policies. As the US ramps up tariffs on foreign goods, Australian-made products might be subject to higher duties when exported to the US, making them more expensive and less competitive. This could hurt Australia’s smaller manufacturing businesses that rely on exports, especially in industries like electronics and textiles.What to Watch For: Keep an eye on trade negotiations. If tariffs go up, expect more headaches for Aussie manufacturers. Retail Is it time to panic? Well, not yet, but brace yourself. If Trump’s tax cuts spark inflation and increase costs for US retailers, this could create a ripple effect in Australia’s retail sector. With the US market becoming more expensive and consumers tightening their belts, Aussie retailers might struggle to maintain their margins. Additionally, import costs could rise, making goods from the US (think electronics and fashion) pricier.What to Watch For: If the US market becomes more expensive, expect Australian retailers to feel the pinch, especially those who rely on imports. Education Education might find itself between a rock and a hard place. Trump’s economic policies might lead to reduced government spending and less international collaboration, which could have an impact on the Australian education sector. While Australia is a top destination for international students, the cost of attending university could rise for US students, especially if the exchange rate swings unfavourably. A stronger USD could also mean fewer Americans looking to study abroad.What to Watch For: A shift in US policy on international student visas and tightening of global budgets could make Australia less appealing to US students. Logistics & Shipping The global supply chain may take a hit under Trump’s policies, and guess who’s stuck in the middle? Yep, Aussie logistics. Trump’s tariffs and protectionist trade policies could disrupt supply chains and inflate shipping costs. This is especially concerning for Australian businesses that rely on global suppliers for materials or goods. With the US dollar strengthening and shipping costs rising, Australian logistics companies will have to brace for higher operational costs and potential delays.What to Watch For: Rising freight costs, customs delays, and possibly disrupted shipping routes as the global supply chain adjusts to Trump’s policies. Looking Ahead to 2025 As 2025 unfolds, Australian businesses will need to keep a sharp eye on the evolving US economy under Trump’s watch. While some sectors stand to gain from his pro-business policies and infrastructure push, others are likely to face significant challenges, particularly those heavily reliant on international trade and US imports. The Takeaway:
SmallBiz Week is back, and it’s bigger than ever! Now expanding to Sydney for the first time, this event promises to be a game-changer for small businesses looking to grow, network, and gain invaluable insights. If you’re a business aiming to reach your target audience, there’s no better place than SmallBiz Week 2025. With dates set for Melbourne (March 18-20) and Sydney (September 24-25), this year’s event is packed with opportunities that you simply can’t afford to miss. Why Should You Exhibit or Sponsor? Let’s face it, reaching your target audience in today’s competitive business environment can be a challenge. But exhibiting or sponsoring at SmallBiz Week could be the answer you’ve been searching for. With over 12,000 attendees, 250+ exhibitors, and 150+ expert speakers, you’ll have the chance to connect with decision-makers from all across Australia. The event is tailored for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which means your target audience is right there in front of you. Networking is key at any B2B event, and SmallBiz Week delivers just that. Whether you’re looking for new clients, potential partners, or suppliers, the B2B meetups and industry talks are perfect opportunities to make valuable connections. More than 80% of last year’s attendees were decision-makers, meaning you’ll be in front of people who are actively seeking new tools and products to invest in. What better way to boost your sales and brand recognition? What to Expect at SmallBiz Week 2025? This year, SmallBiz Week is pulling out all the stops. Here’s a sneak peek of what’s in store: Expert-Led Workshops: Learn practical skills that will give your business an edge. Innovative Tools & Solutions: Discover the latest tech to streamline your operations and save money. Live Industry Talks: Hear from thought-leaders on trending business topics, from AI to automation. Marketing Mastery: Get top-notch strategies to grow your brand and increase your customer base. AI & Automation Demos: Explore how the latest tools can revolutionise your business. This is your chance to stand out in a crowded market, uncover cost-saving strategies, and discover business growth secrets that will propel your business to new heights. Sydney: A New Opportunity SmallBiz Week’s expansion to Sydney this year brings even more opportunities for businesses to grow. With new speakers, new exhibitors, and an entirely new audience to reach, the event in Sydney will be just as packed with potential as the one in Melbourne. Sydney’s tech-forward environment makes it the perfect backdrop for businesses looking to innovate and reach a new clientele. How to Prepare for SmallBiz Week 2025 If you’re thinking of exhibiting or sponsoring, now’s the time to register. Don’t miss out on an event that’s already helped thousands of businesses make crucial connections, expand their network, and ultimately boost their bottom line. Make sure you’re ready to showcase your products and connect with people who are actively looking to invest in new solutions for their business. So, what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars, and get ready to grow your business at SmallBiz Week 2025—where SMEs go to shine! The post Australia’s Biggest SME Event Just Got Bigger: Why You Should Exhibit in Two Cities in 2025 appeared first on Small Business Connections.
It’s that time of year again – the holiday season is upon us. But before you start dusting off your Christmas decorations, let’s take a moment to consider what’s going on in Aussie consumers’ minds. A recent survey by ecommerce platform Omnisend, which polled 1,000 Australians, reveals that 34% of them plan to spend less on gifts this year compared to last year. So, how can SMEs prepare for a leaner, meaner holiday shopping season this December? Who’s on the Gift List? First, the good news: Aussies are still shopping! According to the survey, 58% of Australians are buying gifts for their spouses (a generous lot, we must say), followed closely by parents (56%) and children (54%). And don’t forget the furry friends – 24% of respondents will even be shopping for their pets. With people still keen to give presents, businesses have plenty of opportunities, but they’ll need to think smart and adjust for more cautious spending. The Spend Dilemma While some Australians are feeling festive and plan to spend more (28%), a good chunk (34%) are tightening the purse strings, and 31% will be sticking to the same budget. What does this mean for SMEs? Essentially, you’ll be dealing with a shopper who’s more discerning about where their dollars go. They want value, and they want it fast. Where Are They Shopping? Now, the slightly less surprising (but still significant) bit of news: 52% of shoppers plan to hit up the big online marketplaces like Amazon (78%) and eBay (52%). And it’s not just the familiar faces – 37% of Aussies are heading to Temu, while 21% are choosing Shein. So, as an SME, it’s more important than ever to ensure you have a solid online presence. If you’re not on these marketplaces, now’s the time to consider it. Tips for SMEs to Prepare for the 2024 Holiday Season Focus on Value – With many shoppers planning to spend less, make sure your offerings stand out by focusing on value. That doesn’t mean slashing prices – it’s about quality and meaningful gifts that make people feel they’re getting their money’s worth. Target the Right Groups – Aussies are buying gifts for their spouses, parents, and children, so if your products align with these categories, now’s your time to shine. Tailor your messaging to highlight the perfect gift for these key groups. Get Your Online Presence Sorted – With large platforms leading the charge, it’s essential to have your online shop in top form. Optimise your website, streamline the checkout process, and perhaps even get your products listed on the larger marketplaces. Convenience is key, and customers love a smooth shopping experience. Offer Budget-Friendly Options – 55% of shoppers in group gift exchanges stick to gifts under $30. That’s a big opportunity for businesses offering affordable, yet thoughtful, products. Bundles or discount promotions could also win over customers looking to stretch their dollars. Embrace Self-Gifting – 42% of shoppers admit to treating themselves during the holidays. Why not capitalise on this trend with self-gifting campaigns, offering items that are perfect for someone looking to treat themselves? After all, who doesn’t love a little holiday indulgence? The Final Word With Aussies spending more cautiously this holiday season, it’s crucial for SMEs to adapt. By offering value, tailoring your product selections, and ensuring your online presence is primed for success, you can still capture attention and sales in what’s bound to be a competitive market. After all, in the world of retail, it’s not about how much people spend, but how much value they find in what they buy. The post 34% of Aussies Plan to Spend Less: How SMEs Can Win Over Shoppers This Cost of Living Christmas appeared first on Small Business Connections.
As the festive season approaches, Australians are preparing for their Christmas shopping. New research from PayPal reveals that 91% of Australians plan to buy gifts online this year, with two-thirds (67%) of Australians planning to buy half or more of their gifts online. With ongoing cost-of-living pressures, the allure of online end-of-year sales has grown with 65% of Aussies intending to take advantage of the discounts, including half (50%) who are gearing up for Black Friday deals. Among younger Aussies Black Friday is particularly popular with 72% of Gen Z and 65% of Millennials planning to shop. This makes Black Friday the most popular online sale event, followed by Boxing Day (38%). Half of the Australians surveyed (49%) said they are shopping the online sales this year to keep the cost of Christmas manageable. Half (49%) said they shop the sales online to avoid the crazy crowds, with easier price comparisons (48%) and being able to get better deals (47%) also key reasons for heading online rather than heading in-store for the end-of-year sales. Aussies gearing up for a cautionary Christmas While online shopping offers convenience and potential savings, there are also some risks. From ‘too good to be true’ offers to fake websites, Aussies need to be vigilant while shopping for gifts online. The National Anti-Scam Centre reported a significant rise in fake websites imitating genuine online retail stores last year with nearly 3,000 fraudulent sites leading to over $500,000 in losses. PayPal’s research supports this unfortunate trend, finding that almost a third of Australians (30%) have visited a fake website. Underscoring this rise in fraudulent activity, PayPal’s research found 4-in-5 Australians (79%) are more concerned about their personal data security than they were 12 months ago, with three-quarters (74%) saying they’ve abandoned an online purchase due to security concerns. Nine-in-10 Australians (91%) have experienced contact from fraudsters, with three quarters having received scam emails (77%), calls (72%), or texts (71%). Gen Z, the generation most likely to be targeted by fake websites The rush to snap up deals quickly, combined with their affinity for trending products and social media, makes younger Gen Z Aussies more likely to be targeted by fake websites during sales events like Black Friday. PayPal’s research shows 44% of Gen Z shoppers have encountered fraudulent websites compared to a national average of 30%. Fraudsters aren’t taking it easy on young Aussie shoppers, with 70% of Gen Z being targeted by scam emails and 67% receiving scam texts claiming to be from legitimate businesses. However, Gen Z could take more precautions, half of them (51%) admitting to using free WiFi networks without checking if they’re secure – the highest rate across all generations. Recognising scams at Christmas, and how to stay safe Scammers often exploit the excitement of holiday sales, using tactics like countdown timers and “limited-time offers” to create a sense of urgency. Dan Grant, Consumer Shopping Expert at PayPal Australia, emphasises the importance of caution: “The end of year sales are a great way to snag a bargain and online shopping is definitely the most convenient way to access deals across multiple outlets, do quick price comparisons and organise deliveries. “However, Aussies should be extra vigilant during the sales period and recognise the signs of fake deals and sites. Slow down, use trusted payment methods and always trust your instincts – if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.” To help Australians navigate the holiday shopping season safely, PayPal offers the following seven expert tips: Avoid public Wi-Fi networks: Use secure, trusted networks when shopping online. Public Wi-Fi can expose your device to hackers. Use secure payment methods: Opt for payment methods like PayPal, which have added security, encrypt your payment details, and offer ‘Buyer Protection’ should your eligible purchase not arrive, be damaged on arrival or not match what you ordered. Be wary of ‘too good to be true’ deals: If a looks too good to be true, it well might be. Check the retailer’s official website to avoid falling victim to fake promotions. Avoid suspicious links: Don’t click on links sent via email or text as they may lead to phishing sites or malware. Go to the official website of the retailer. Monitor your statements: Regularly check your bank and payment statements for unauthorised transactions and if you see any, report them immediately. Enable two-factor authentication: For added protection, enable two-factor authentication on your accounts where possible. This will send a code to your device to verify that it’s you. Be cautious of fake websites: Look out for signs that a website is a fake, including poor spelling and grammar, a lack of contact information along with no physical address, no locked URL, and limited or no secure payment options, such as PayPal. The post 30% of Aussies have Visited a Fake Retail Website: Gen Z Most Likely to be Targeted appeared first on Small Business Connections.
Coco Hou CPA, CEO of Platinum Accounting Australia, is urging businesses to prepare for upcoming changes to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) superannuation regulations. From 1 July 2026, employers will be required to pay employees’ superannuation at the same time as their salary and wages. The ATO’s move to real-time super payments aims to streamline the system, ensuring employees receive their entitlements promptly. The start date has been set to allow enough time for employers, super funds, payroll providers, and other stakeholders to adjust. However, Hou warns businesses not to delay their preparations. “I am of the strong opinion that if many businesses do not start preparing now for the changes, they will face solvency issues once the new requirements kick in. Businesses will face a cashflow coma if they do not ready themselves now,” Hou said. To ensure a smooth transition, Hou has outlined key areas of focus for businesses. Review Payroll Systems “While many businesses use systems such as Xero and MYOB, there are many other aspects to changes to payroll management,” Hou explained. “Businesses need to ensure current systems can handle simultaneous superannuation and wage payments, and that other processes and administrative functions are updated as well.” Stronger Integrity Measures “The requirement for superannuation payments to be made at the same time as employee pays are processed introduces higher levels of risk to the business,” Hou said. “This will also give rise to the need for stronger integrity checks and fail-safe mechanisms.” Cashflow Management “Businesses will need to adjust their financial planning to accommodate real-time superannuation contributions. The impact for many businesses will be quite significant,” Hou said. “I am strongly urging businesses to review their debtor management to improve collection of payments.” Seek Help and Staff Training “Significant changes of this nature impose serious challenges for businesses. I urge businesses to seek advice from accountants or financial advisors to ensure compliance,” Hou said. “Once systems have been updated and new procedures and processes put in place, it will be essential for businesses to educate HR and payroll teams on the changes to avoid errors or delays.” With penalties for non-compliance a possibility, Hou stresses that early preparation will prevent stress and financial strain as the deadline approaches. The post How the ATO’s New Super Changes Could Put Your SME’s Cashflow in a “Coma” appeared first on Small Business Connections.
Australia’s recent decision to pass the world’s strictest teen social media ban has sent shockwaves through the business and marketing sectors. With the legislation now in place, children under 16 will be barred from using social media platforms, marking a significant shift in how companies will approach youth marketing and digital engagement. The legislation, which is set to take effect in 12 months, aims to protect young Australians from the perceived harms of social media, such as cyberbullying, online predators, and mental health concerns. However, the move has raised important questions about how businesses will need to adjust their marketing strategies to continue reaching this crucial demographic. Impact on Businesses For businesses, particularly those that rely on young audiences for brand promotion and sales, this law introduces immediate challenges. Social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat have long been key avenues for reaching teen consumers, with their highly targeted advertising and influencer marketing capabilities. The removal of this audience will force businesses to rethink their strategies. Companies that have used social media platforms to directly engage with teens, whether through influencer partnerships or viral campaigns, will need to explore alternative marketing channels. Retailers, fashion brands, gaming companies, and tech firms may find themselves particularly affected, as they have heavily relied on digital spaces to cultivate brand loyalty among younger audiences. This shift could mean an increased focus on traditional marketing strategies, such as TV ads, outdoor media, and more offline experiences to engage teenagers and their families. The Potential Role of Parents and Guardians While the new law doesn’t allow for parental consent or exemptions for current users, businesses may still look to parents as a key route to reaching teens. Marketing to parents, particularly those making purchasing decisions for their children, could see a rise. Brands may pivot to promoting products or services through channels that engage adult audiences, such as family-focused TV programmes, email newsletters, or apps popular among parents. Challenges for Tech Companies For tech companies, the legislation introduces a hefty financial risk. If platforms fail to comply with the ban, they could face fines of up to A$50 million (£25.7 million). This will put enormous pressure on social media companies to rethink how they manage user data and age verification processes, as well as how they target advertising. This new law could push tech firms to enhance their content filtering and parental control features, or even introduce new, age-appropriate services aimed at younger audiences. However, for businesses relying on user-generated content and teen engagement, this presents a significant obstacle. The Future of Youth Marketing As Australia’s youth social media ban takes shape, businesses will need to adopt a more innovative and adaptable approach to marketing. With a significant portion of their target demographic now off-limits to traditional digital advertising, companies will need to diversify their efforts and find new ways to connect with teens – whether through alternative social platforms, influencer collaborations outside traditional social channels, or experiential marketing. The legislation’s long-term effects on consumer behaviour and brand loyalty among Australian teens are still to be seen. But one thing is certain: businesses will need to stay nimble as they navigate the changing landscape of youth marketing in Australia. The post Australia’s New Teen Social Media Ban: What It Means for Businesses and Marketing appeared first on Small Business Connections.
SmallBiz Week 2025 is on the horizon, and with it comes an exciting opportunity for businesses to elevate their brand by showcasing their expertise. This year, the event is expanding to two major cities, Melbourne and Sydney, offering unparalleled speaking and workshop sponsorship opportunities for exhibitors and sponsors. With over 150 industry leaders, SME owners, and decision-makers in attendance, SmallBiz Week 2025 is the perfect platform to share your insights, showcase your products, and make valuable connections. Let’s break down two standout opportunities for businesses looking to get involved – speaking at the SmallBiz Sessions and sponsoring a Workshop. 1. Speak at the SmallBiz Sessions: Capture the Attention of Over 150 Decision-Makers One of the most exciting opportunities for exhibitors and sponsors at SmallBiz Week 2025 is speaking at the SmallBiz Sessions. With over 150 attendees in the audience, including key decision-makers and SME owners, this platform provides a perfect chance to position your business as a leader in your industry. There are two ways to get involved with the SmallBiz Sessions: either by delivering a keynote address or joining a panel discussion. Keynote Sessions: If you have a thought leadership piece or a game-changing idea, the keynote address is your chance to speak directly to a large audience. As a speaker, you will have a unique platform to provide valuable insights on topics that matter most to small businesses, such as digital transformation, marketing strategies, or operational efficiency. Panel Discussions: Alternatively, you can opt for a panel discussion, where you and a group of experts will engage in an open conversation about trending topics in the business world. This is a great way to position your brand as part of the broader industry conversation and provide insights on how your products or services can solve specific challenges faced by SMEs. Regardless of whether you choose a keynote or panel discussion, these speaking opportunities put your brand in front of key decision-makers actively seeking solutions to improve and grow their businesses. Previous years have seen an impressive mix of top-tier companies and thought leaders, such as Salesforce, Nine News Ad Manager, and Optus, making their mark at the SmallBiz Sessions. 2. Sponsor a Workshop: Engage with SME Owners in an Intimate, Hands-On Setting For businesses looking for a more intimate and hands-on opportunity, sponsoring a workshop at SmallBiz Week 2025 is the perfect choice. Unlike the large SmallBiz Sessions, these workshops are designed for smaller groups, typically 60 SME owners and decision-makers, which allows for deeper, more personal engagement. As a workshop sponsor, your business will have the chance to lead a 90-minute session where you can teach SME owners about your products and services, demonstrate how your tools can help streamline operations, improve productivity, or drive growth. This is an invaluable opportunity to show decision-makers how your solution fits into their daily operations and helps solve real-world problems. The smaller, more focused group setting also offers the benefit of interactive Q&A sessions, where you can directly address specific challenges or queries from attendees. This not only enhances the credibility of your brand but also allows you to form deeper connections with potential customers. For businesses offering B2B solutions, whether it’s software, financial services, marketing automation tools, or other solutions tailored to SMEs, a workshop sponsorship will help your company stand out as a trusted provider. Maximise Your Reach: Choose from Two Cities and Dates for 2025 SmallBiz Week 2025 is expanding to two vibrant Australian cities: Melbourne and Sydney, offering your business the chance to maximise exposure and reach. Whether you choose to exhibit, speak, or sponsor a workshop in one or both cities, the event provides you with a fantastic opportunity to tap into the heart of Australia’s small and medium-sized business market. Melbourne: March 18-20, 2025, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) Sydney: September 24-25, 2025, at the International Convention Centre (ICC) By attending both events, you can expand your reach to different audiences in key Australian markets, ensuring that your brand and products are visible to a wide range of SMEs from across the country. Exhibiting or speaking in both cities will help you tap into regional markets and gain maximum exposure, making 2025 the year your business takes centre stage in the SME sector. Why Should You Sponsor a Workshop or Speak at SmallBiz Week 2025? By choosing either the SmallBiz Sessions or workshop sponsorship, your business can directly engage with a captive audience of SME decision-makers who are actively looking for new solutions to take their businesses to the next level. These sponsorship opportunities allow you to showcase your expertise, build brand awareness, and foster valuable relationships with the very people who need your products and services. SmallBiz Week 2025 will be held in both Melbourne (March 18-20) and Sydney (September 24-25), so whether you’re looking to share your knowledge with a larger audience or connect more deeply with a smaller group, there’s a perfect opportunity waiting for you. Don’t miss out on these exclusive speaking and workshop sponsorship opportunities. Apply now and become a key part of Australia’s premier B2B event for SMEs! The post Lead the Conversation: Why You Should Sponsor a Workshop or Speak at SmallBiz Week appeared first on Small Business Connections.
As an SME, finding the right platform to connect with decision-makers and potential clients can be a daunting task, especially in an environment of rising costs and economic uncertainty. However, events like SmallBiz Week 2025 provide an unparalleled opportunity to directly engage with businesses eager to invest in products and services that will help them grow. With its expansion to two capital cities in 2025, this event is an essential calendar highlight for any business aiming to connect with the SME sector. What is SmallBiz Week 2025? SmallBiz Week is Australia’s largest B2B event tailored specifically for small and medium-sized businesses. Returning for its fourth year, the event will be held in Melbourne (March 18-20) and for the first time, in Sydney (September 24-25). The event will feature a mix of expert-led workshops, live industry talks, and networking opportunities, with over 250 exhibitors and 12,000 attendees expected. If you have a product or service for SMEs, SmallBiz Week presents a valuable opportunity to showcase your offerings. Why Should Your SME Exhibit or Sponsor? Direct Access to Key Decision-Makers A major benefit of participating in SmallBiz Week is the direct access to business leaders who are actively looking for solutions to the challenges they face. 80% of attendees from the previous year were decision-makers, which means your product or service has a much higher chance of getting noticed and potentially adopted by these businesses. Networking and Partnerships B2B events like SmallBiz Week are fertile ground for building lasting business relationships. With plenty of networking sessions, you can forge partnerships that may lead to long-term contracts or collaborations. This is particularly valuable for SMEs, as word-of-mouth and trusted partnerships can significantly boost growth prospects. Exposure to New Tech and Solutions SmallBiz Week is not just about exhibiting; it’s about demonstrating how your products can provide real value. Many businesses attend specifically to learn about new technologies and tools that will improve their operations. Whether it’s AI-driven tools, cost-saving software, or marketing automation platforms, attendees come prepared to discover products that will help them improve efficiency and profitability. SmallBiz Week: A Platform for Growing Your SME With the cost of doing business continuing to rise, SMEs are becoming more selective about where they allocate their resources. SmallBiz Week gives your business the perfect platform to present itself as a vital resource for these companies looking to stay competitive. In addition to the valuable exposure to decision-makers, the event offers practical workshops and live talks that focus on the most pressing challenges faced by SMEs today. Whether it’s how to optimise operations, improve cash flow management, or implement effective marketing strategies, the content presented at SmallBiz Week can position your product or service as an essential solution. What’s New for 2025? The 2025 event will mark the first time SmallBiz Week takes place in Sydney. For businesses in the Sydney area, this is an exciting opportunity to engage with a fresh pool of potential clients and partners. For Melbourne-based businesses, it offers a chance to further expand their reach and influence. The event’s focus on emerging business technologies like AI and automation also means that companies providing these solutions are in the ideal position to capture the attention of the audience. Final Thoughts For SMEs looking to increase their visibility, expand their network, and make valuable connections, SmallBiz Week 2025 offers an event unlike any other. By exhibiting or sponsoring, you’ll be placing your business in front of a highly targeted audience of decision-makers eager to invest in solutions that can help them overcome the challenges of the modern business landscape. Whether you’re introducing new tech, offering cost-effective solutions, or simply looking to boost your brand’s recognition, SmallBiz Week 2025 in Melbourne and Sydney is the place to be. Register now to ensure your SME is part of Australia’s largest and most dynamic event for small businesses. The post Australia’s Largest SME Event Expands to Two Cities in 2025: Why You Should Exhibit appeared first on Small Business Connections.
As Australia’s post-COVID economy continues to recover, demand for business credit among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has surged. According to the latest SME Growth Index Report by ScotPac, just 6% of SMEs have ruled out seeking new borrowings in the next six months, with nearly half of all SMEs now preferring online-only loans. The report, which tracks the growth prospects and sentiment of Australian SMEs, reveals that 40% of businesses in a growth phase are anticipating a need for short-term finance. This trend highlights the vital role of credit in helping SMEs rebuild their operations, manage supply chains, and maintain cash flow after the disruptions caused by the pandemic. The increased preference for online-only loan applications is one of the standout findings, with 48% of SMEs choosing to apply for finance purely through digital channels. This shift is largely driven by the speed and convenience offered by online applications, which are seen as a faster alternative to traditional in-person processes. Additionally, 19% of SMEs expressed a desire for the flexibility to switch between online applications and a dedicated customer service resource. Despite the rise of online lending, the report also underscores the importance of expert support for businesses navigating more complex financial needs. Jon Sutton, CEO of ScotPac, noted that while technology has made access to finance easier, the demand for tailored advice remains strong, particularly for businesses in growth phases. “The post-COVID recovery has prompted tens of thousands of SMEs to seek credit, not just to rebuild but to expand their operations,” Sutton said. “Regulatory changes have opened the door for non-bank lending, and technology has made it easier for businesses to find solutions that suit their needs.” The report also points to the increased availability of alternative lending options, with non-bank lenders playing an expanding role in the market. For many businesses, these alternative options are seen as a faster and more flexible way to access the funds needed to fuel growth. With rising demand for finance, brokers who stay up-to-date with new lending products are well-placed to guide SMEs through the evolving landscape of business finance. As Australia’s economy continues to recover, the ability for SMEs to secure quick and flexible credit will be a crucial factor in their ability to thrive in the years ahead. The post Credit Demand Surges with 94% of SMEs Seeking New Capital appeared first on Small Business Connections.
Now that Black Friday has come and gone, Australian small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are reflecting on whether it was worth participating, especially given the current economic pressures. With the cost of living crisis affecting both businesses and consumers, new data from Xero reveals the complex decision-making process behind joining the sales frenzy and the impact of discounting on SMBs. A survey of over 550 small business owners has uncovered a mix of attitudes towards Black Friday, with many feeling the weight of competition from larger retailers. Around 60% of businesses surveyed reported feeling pressure to compete with big businesses during Black Friday, highlighting the challenge of standing out in a crowded marketplace. Despite the pressures, half (50%) of SMBs will participate in Black Friday this year. For many, it’s a necessary strategy to stay relevant. A third of respondents (34%) say they feel compelled to offer discounts to keep up with larger competitors, while 33% are concerned about losing customers to other businesses offering promotions. This constant need to offer discounts is a balancing act, with small business owners aiming to drive sales without eroding their profit margins. However, not all businesses are jumping on the Black Friday bandwagon. A quarter (24%) of SMBs have opted out of the event this year. The main reason cited by these businesses is affordability, with 29% saying they simply cannot afford the discounts and promotions associated with Black Friday. Other barriers include inventory limitations (19%) and logistical challenges (11%), which can complicate the ability to meet the surge in demand. For some, the fear of undermining their profitability through heavy discounting is also a concern, with 15% saying they believe it could hurt their bottom line. For many smaller businesses, offering regular discounts is simply not sustainable. The survey revealed that 37% of all businesses rarely or never offer discounts, as they can’t afford to do so. In an era of rising costs and squeezed margins, many SMB owners are focusing on maintaining the quality and value of their products rather than relying on sales events to boost business. So, was Black Friday worth it for Australian SMBs this year? The answer depends on the individual business and its circumstances. For some, the event is an essential sales opportunity, a chance to compete with larger players in the market. For others, however, Black Friday’s reliance on discounting feels unsustainable, especially in an economic climate where margins are already thin. As the cost of living continues to rise, many small businesses may need to rethink their approach to sales and discounting in order to survive and thrive in the long term. The post Was Black Friday Worth It for SMEs? The Impact of Discounts Amid the Cost of Doing Business Crisis appeared first on Small Business Connections.