The Local Buying Foundation proudly partnered with the Muswellbrook Chamber of Commerce & Industry to deliver a dynamic series of workshops during Small Business Month. This initiative was designed to equip local businesses with practical tools, expert insights, and networking opportunities to help them thrive in today’s competitive environment and build resilience for the future. Under the Sponsorship category, the Local Buying Foundation’s goal was clear: empower small businesses by providing access to learning opportunities that drive sustainable growth. By supporting events like these, the Foundation ensures regional businesses have the resources they need to succeed and contribute to vibrant, resilient local economies.
The event took place at the Muswellbrook RSL Club Auditorium, offering a full day of four interactive workshops. Attendees could choose to attend the entire day or select individual sessions tailored to their needs. The programme covered emerging topics and essential business skills, including artificial intelligence for small businesses, effective local marketing strategies, time management and strategic planning, and customer satisfaction and relationship building. This hands-on approach connected business owners with expert presenters and actionable resources, fostering confidence and capability within the Muswellbrook business community.
The first workshop, “A Practical Guide to AI”, presented by ACorp Computers, explored how to harness AI securely for small businesses. Participants learned what risk looks like in their business and how prepared they are for AI integration, gaining practical insights into leveraging technology while mitigating potential challenges. The second session, “Muswellbrook Marketing Know-How”, delivered by Livmedia, focused on simple, locally driven strategies to grow a business. This practical session guided attendees through creating a one-page marketing plan they could start using immediately, ensuring their efforts resonate in their own community.
The third workshop, “Time-Poor but Ambitious?”, presented by Launchpad9, was a 90-minute power session designed to help business owners step back from the daily grind and reconnect with their vision. Claire Quigley shared tools and clarity to define success on their own terms, map out critical priorities, and focus time and energy effectively. With shifting industry landscapes and emerging opportunities, this session emphasised the importance of pausing, resetting, and refocusing for strategic growth. It was not another talkfest but a hands-on working session designed to get things moving fast.
The final workshop, “Customer Satisfaction and Relationships”, presented by MCCI, highlighted why personal service and strong customer relationships are more important than ever in an era dominated by AI and digital interactions. Attendees discovered strategies to attract new customers and retain existing ones, ensuring long-term loyalty and success.