Backing a stronger future for Newman businesses

As major resource, energy and infrastructure projects continue to shape the East Pilbara, ensuring local businesses are well positioned to participate in that growth has never been more important. Recognising this opportunity, the Local Buying Foundation has funded the Newman Economic Participation and Growth Program, a two-year initiative that will strengthen business capability, representation and economic participation across the region.

Delivered by the Newman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI), the program will help local businesses build stronger connections to emerging opportunities while ensuring the voices of Newman businesses are represented in discussions that influence the region’s future. As the peak body representing the local business community, NCCI plays an important role in supporting economic development, advocating on behalf of local industry and creating opportunities for businesses to grow and succeed.

The program was developed in response to the significant economic growth occurring across the East Pilbara and the opportunity for Newman to further establish itself as a regional service hub. While investment and development continue to expand throughout the region, local businesses need access to the networks, support and information required to participate and compete for new opportunities.

Funding from the Local Buying Foundation will support a dedicated Executive Officer to deliver a structured program of work focused on strengthening business capability, growing local participation and creating a more sustainable future for the Chamber.

The project will focus on strengthening advocacy for local businesses, building business capability and competitiveness, creating stronger connections between local suppliers and industry, increasing opportunities for First Nations businesses and Traditional Owner organisations and fostering partnerships across business, government and community stakeholders. It will also support the long-term sustainability of the Newman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, ensuring it can continue to deliver value and representation for the local business community into the future.

Over the next two years, the project is expected to facilitate new business connections, deliver capability-building initiatives, support supplier engagement and strengthen the networks that help regional businesses access and benefit from economic opportunities.

By investing in organisations such as NCCI, the Local Buying Foundation is helping create stronger business ecosystems, ensuring regional communities are equipped to participate in growth and capture long-term economic benefits close to home.