The Local Buying Foundation, in partnership with the Port Hedland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHCCI), is excited to introduce the Business Boost program. This initiative is designed to support small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in the Port Hedland and Newman regions, helping to build a sustainable, thriving business community and a future-ready workforce.
Cath Widdup, PHCCI Business Development Manager commented: “I’m really looking forward to working with the local businesses within Port Hedland and help build a collaborative small business community! Thank you to all the Businesses who have joined the program I’m really looking forward to helping you with business goals!”
Over the past few months, several information sessions have been held in Newman and Port Hedland, and businesses are already signing up for what promises to be an invaluable program. The program includes a business analysis to identify specific needs, conducted by the Business Development Manager, followed by tailored packages for each business, featuring mentoring, workshops, and coaching. Participants also benefit from Business Connect services, free networking sessions, and access to a variety of business resources. At the end of the program, an evaluation will be conducted, with the option for businesses to continue their involvement.
The Business Boost program was created in response to the 2023 study funded by the Local Buying Foundation, which explored economic activity and challenges faced by SMEs in Port Hedland and East Pilbara. It became clear that supporting local businesses was key to creating a competitive, resilient community.
The Local Buying Foundation and PHCCI are committed to ensuring businesses in the Pilbara have the tools, mentorship, and support needed to thrive. If you’re operating in Port Hedland or East Pilbara, get in touch with Cath Widdup to learn how Business Boost could support your business. Together, we’re building a stronger business community.
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Cath Widdup appointed as Business Development Manager for Port Hedland Chamber of Commerce
30 June, 2024
The Local Buying Foundation and Port Hedland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHCCI) are pleased to announce the appointment of Cath Widdup as the new Business Development Manager, a role funded by the Local Buying Foundation. Cath’s position is one of 14 business development roles funded by the Local Buying Foundation – known collectively as the Bridging the Boundaries positions across Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia.
In her new role, Cath will lead the recently launched Business Boost program, aimed at helping businesses in Port Hedland and Newman thrive by offering tailored mentoring, coaching, and networking opportunities. As the Business Development Manager, she will provide hands-on support to local businesses, conducting business needs assessments, facilitating workshops, and connecting participants with vital business resources.
Cath Widdup’s appointment marks a significant step forward for businesses in Port Hedland, and PHCCI is excited to see how she will bring Business Boost and other initiatives to life. For more information about business development opportunities in your region, contact your local development officer to learn about the available support.
This funded role is part of the broader Bridging the Boundaries initiative, which is part of the Local Buying Foundation’s commitment to supporting economic development. The program helps fund a range of business development and economic support roles across Queensland and New South Wales, enabling facilitators like Cath to drive impactful initiatives in their regions. These roles are vital in initiating and supporting programs that help local businesses access services and resources, strengthening the economic foundation of regional communities. More information about these positions the Local Buying Foundation funds nationally can be found here.
We extend a heartfelt welcome to Cath.
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Local Buying Foundation drives Pilbara Business Mentorship Program
26 Feb, 2024
The Local Buying Foundation, in partnership with the Port Hedland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHCCI), is proud to launch the Bridging the Boundaries: Pilbara Business Mentor Program. This initiative is designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Port Hedland and Newman regions, with the goal of creating thriving, sustainable business communities and building a future-ready workforce.
The Business Mentor Program, delivered through the PHCCI, provides personalised mentorship to entrepreneurs and business owners in these regions. It connects local businesses with experienced mentors who offer tailored guidance, helping them grow and strengthen their capabilities. Over a structured 24-month period, mentees will receive one-on-one mentoring, attend workshops on business skills like planning, financial management, and marketing, and participate in networking events to foster connections with other entrepreneurs and industry experts.
The program’s ultimate goal is to increase local businesses’ competitiveness and ability to integrate into broader supply chains, benefitting both the regional economy and individual enterprises. The LBF identified PHCCI as the ideal partner to deliver this project, given its commitment to addressing the needs of local businesses and providing them with essential mentorship opportunities.
By funding initiatives like this under the Micro-Business & SME Capacity Building category, the LBF is investing in the long-term success of the Pilbara’s business community, ensuring it remains robust and adaptable to future challenges.