NSW Government Programs

Industry and Investment NSW is the major State Government department dealing with regional business in NSW. Not only does Industry & Investment manage the majority of financial assistance programs, but they also have regionally based Business Development Managers who can help businesses access funding. For more information go to www.smallbiz.nsw.gov.au.

Information about Regional Programs for businesses can be found by going to http://www.business.nsw.gov.au/assistance-and-support/grantsor by contacting

Suzette Gaff
Business Development Manager - Hunter Region
Industry and Investment NSW
Ph - 4908 7333
Suzette.gaff@business.nsw.gov.au

Rhiannon Stevens   
Acting Economic Development Manager
Cessnock City Council
Ph – 4993 4257
Rhiannon.stevens@cessnock.nsw.gov.au

Small Business NSW

The New South Wales Government information website for people starting, running or growing a small business. For more information go to www.smallbiz.nsw.gov.au.

Innovation

Innovation Advisory Centre in the Hunter can provide assistance to innovative businesses by way of:

• Free and confidential face-to-face meetings
• Innovation information packages 
• Subsidised technical assessments, and
• Innovation awareness events

Clients can also visit www.ausinvent.com for self assessments and innovation, news, to exhibit their ideas or products or to look for business partners. The Australian Technology Showcase promotes innovative Australian technologies to an international market. Companies accepted into the showcase gain access to networking and export development support. Visit www.ats.business.gov.au for more information.

Regional Business Support

NSW Trade & Investment provides a range of special services and programs to assist the regions of NSW meet the challenges that confront them. These challenges are most effectively met through a partnership between government, businesses and communities.

Visit http://www.business.nsw.gov.au/assistance-and-support/grants/regional-programs for more information.

Aboriginal Business Development

The Department helps Aboriginal business people to develop business skills, establish networks and grow markets. Assistance is available for eligible businesses activities, including participation in domestic trade fairs, industry-specific marketing and engaging expert assistance for growth projects, business reviews and mentoring. Support is delivered through experienced Aboriginal Business Development Managers and regional staff.
These programs have been created to assist businesses that are majority owned and operated by Aboriginal people. Information on all the Department's initiatives for Aboriginal people can be found at www.aboriginalbiz.nsw.gov.au or http://www.business.nsw.gov.au/assistance-and-support/grants/aboriginal-business-development