The Eastern Business Advisory Service (EBAS) has been launched to assist local businesses facing economic pressures and increasing costs. The service aims to enhance the capabilities of small and medium enterprises across eastern Adelaide by offering them tailor-made advisory services and strategic resources at no charge.
This initiative provides a unique opportunity for business entrepreneurs to collaborate directly with experienced local business leaders. These leaders serve as mentors, offering insights into business growth and various aspects of business management such as financial planning, marketing strategies, HR, wellbeing, and cyber security.
During the one-on-one consultations, mentors share practical insights, advise on overcoming business challenges, and aid entrepreneurs in spotting growth opportunities within their sectors. The service operates under the Eastern Region Alliance (ERA) councils and aims to create a nurturing business ecosystem in the region.
ERA Chair, Mayor Robert Bria commented on the launch, saying, “As Chair of ERA, I am pleased so many people put their hand up to be involved in the Eastern Business Advisory Service, which is spread across the six ERA councils.” He continued, “Not only is it a demonstration of the collaborative approach of ERA, it is also recognition of the importance of the local economies in each of the council areas and the expertise, skill and knowledge within our respective business community.”
ERA Business Support Officer, Amy Skewes, addressed the significance of the service, “Small businesses are the backbone of our community, and they face unique challenges in today’s economic environment. Our free advisory service aims to provide practical solutions and expert in advice to overcome current economic challenges and thrive in a competitive market.”
The service is available for business owners across Burnside, Campbelltown, Norwood Payneham & St Peters, Prospect, Unley, and the Town of Walkerville. Business owners like Jo Quigley from Send a Gourmet Basket & Infant Boutique have already benefitted from the service. “As a small business owner, I can’t stress enough how crucial council support is. It is wonderful to see that the council values small businesses in the area,” stated Ms Quigley. She further recommended the service, stating, “Using the Eastern Business Advisory Service not only helped me put my thoughts into perspective, but also reinforced that I was on the right track and provided valuable hints on coping mechanisms. I highly recommend this service to any small business owner in the region.”
Another entrepreneur, Bel Ryan from Ignite Wellbeing Co, praised the scheme for making business processes more transparent, “Navigating business can feel like trying to speak a different language sometimes and it can get a little confusing. To have access to an expert who can interpret, support, and make things clearer is so valuable. To be able to access this service means that the next steps feel achievable as well as the knowledge and information to ensure I am on the right track. Thank you, ERA, for your insight and support.”
For additional information about the free business advisory service and participation details, interested individuals are encouraged to visit www.easternbusinessadvisory.sa.gov.au.
