Scenic Rim Small Business Month returns
Scenic Rim Regional Council is set to deliver a dynamic program of events during May as part of Small Business Month 2026, supporting local operators to grow, connect and thrive.
The month-long program features a diverse calendar of free workshops, networking opportunities and practical business support initiatives tailored to the needs of the region’s small business community.
It includes social media, grant writing and taxation workshops, recruitment and employment sessions, one-on-one meetings with Council planners focused on short-term accommodation, and an interactive AI workshop designed to help businesses embrace emerging technologies.
Where possible, local experts have been engaged to deliver these sessions, offering relevant, locally focused insights.
A highlight of the program is the Scenic Rim Small Business Breakfast, to be held on Wednesday 6 May at The Centre Beaudesert, featuring keynote speaker Julia Spicer - a renowned rural entrepreneur and former Queensland Chief Entrepreneur.
Julia will share insights from her experience supporting regional innovation and enterprise.
The breakfast will also include a panel of Scenic Rim Business Excellence Award winners, announced recently at the gala event last month, offering practical perspectives on operating a successful business in the region.
Scenic Rim's Economic Development and Tourism Portfolio Councillor Marshall Chalk said Council’s ongoing investment in initiatives such as Small Business Month reflect a clear commitment to long-term economic resilience.
“Small businesses are at the heart of the Scenic Rim - they create local jobs, drive innovation and help shape the unique character of our communities,” he said.
“Council is committed to backing our local businesses — not just through advocacy, but also by delivering practical programs that build capability, encourage innovation and create opportunities for growth across the region.
“Approximately 5,000 businesses are operating across the Scenic Rim - with 98 per cent classified as small businesses - playing a critical role in driving our $2.5 billion regional economy and nearly 17,300 local jobs.
“Scenic Rim's Small Business Month program is about ensuring our operators have access to the tools, knowledge and connections they need to succeed - now and into the future.”
This program of workshops and events aligns with the Scenic Rim Economic Development Strategy 2026–2030, particularly the priorities to support local businesses to grow, enhance the region’s profile, and strengthen its appeal as a place to live, learn, work, visit and invest.
It is also a key deliverable under Council’s 2025–2026 Operational Plan and reinforces Scenic Rim's commitment as a Small Business Friendly Council.
"Council is pleased to support the region's four Chambers of Commerce and local tourism organisation Destination Scenic Rim in delivering their respective events in May," Cr Chalk said.
"I encourage local business owners and operators to make the most of the opportunities presented by Small Business Month by exploring the full program and securing their place at upcoming events."
View the full program and register at https://www.scenicrim.qld.gov.au/smallbusinessmonth