Fostering local business connections

Published on 27 August 2024

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Now into its third year, the City of Whittlesea’s Business Network continues to provide local businesses with opportunities to connect, collaborate, and grow.  

At its Council Meeting on Tuesday 20 August, a report outlining the outcomes from the Business Network were presented. This includes:

  • more than 400 businesses have joined the Network 

  • seven network events have been hosted and attended by 248 businesses 

  • 74 members nominated in the 2024 City of Whittlesea Business Awards 

  • 254 members listed on Council’s business directory online platform. 

City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said it was great to see how the Business Network had become a cornerstone for business development within the municipality, fostering a vibrant community of entrepreneurs and enterprises.  

"After two years of operation, the Business Network continues to hold its position as a vital program that strengthens business-to-business connections and capacity building. By bringing businesses together, we can create a stronger, more resilient local economy,” Lydia said. 

“The City of Whittlesea is proud to be home to over 21,900 businesses that play a crucial role in driving our local economy. We’ve seen robust employment growth, with a remarkable 4.8 per cent increase in job creation in 2023 alone. This growth highlights the vitality and potential of our local economy, and we are committed to supporting this positive path.”  

The City of Whittlesea Business Network membership is free of charge and open to all businesses with a valid ABN operating from a physical location within the City of Whittlesea.   

Members can take advantage of regular networking events that foster valuable connections and professional relationships, access to learning opportunities designed to enhance business skills and knowledge and gain increased visibility through an online business directory. Members are also eligible to for the prestigious City of Whittlesea annual Business Awards. 

“The City of Whittlesea Business Network is a testament to our commitment to economic development and community support. I encourage all local businesses to join and take advantage of the opportunities this network provides," said Lydia.  

To join, businesses can complete the online membership application.  

For more information contact the City of Whittlesea Economic Development Department.

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