So, the NSW Government is pulling the plug on Business Connect NSW. This program has been around for a while, offering small businesses free advice and support. It’s a bit of a shock for a lot of people, especially those who relied on it to get their ideas off the ground or keep things running smoothly. Let’s break down what this means and what you can do next.
Key Takeaways
- Business Connect NSW, a program offering free expert advice to small businesses, will end on 30 September 2025 due to the NSW Government not renewing its funding.
- Since 2017, the program provided tens of thousands of businesses with up to eight hours of tailored advice annually, covering areas like strategy, finance, and marketing.
- The closure has raised concerns among business advocates about the accessibility of support for small businesses, particularly for those in regional areas or facing specific challenges.
- While Service NSW offers a Business Concierge service for basic assistance, it’s seen as not a direct replacement for the in-depth, specialised support Business Connect provided.
- Small business owners are advised to explore alternative support options, including other government services, private sector advisors, and building their own professional networks to fill the gap left by Business Connect NSW.
Understanding The Business Connect NSW Program
What Business Connect NSW Offered
For years, Business Connect NSW was a go-to resource for small businesses across the state. It wasn’t just a generic helpline; it was designed to offer practical, tailored advice. Think of it as having a seasoned business mentor on call, ready to help you sort through the tricky bits of running your own show. Whether you were just starting out, trying to get your business off the ground, or looking to expand, this program aimed to provide the support you needed.
The Value Proposition For Small Businesses
The main draw for businesses was the access to free, expert advice. For many small business owners, especially those just starting or operating on tight budgets, paying for professional business consulting just wasn’t an option. Business Connect filled that gap. It provided a way for entrepreneurs to get guidance on everything from financial planning and marketing strategies to operational efficiency and legal compliance. This accessibility meant that more businesses, regardless of their financial standing, could get the help needed to succeed. It was about levelling the playing field a bit, giving everyone a better shot.
Key Features Of The Business Connect NSW Program
Business Connect was structured to be flexible and responsive to individual business needs. Here’s a breakdown of what it typically included:
- One-on-One Advisory Sessions: Business owners could book sessions with experienced advisors who specialised in various areas of business. These were often capped at a certain number of hours per financial year, giving consistent support.
- Workshops and Webinars: The program also ran group sessions covering common business challenges and opportunities, allowing owners to learn from experts and network with peers.
- Tailored Advice: The focus was always on providing advice specific to the business’s situation, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
- Focus on Growth and Sustainability: Support was geared towards helping businesses not just survive, but thrive and become more resilient in the long run.
The program aimed to connect businesses with the right advisor for their specific needs, recognising that every business journey is unique. This personalised approach was a significant part of its success.
The End Of An Era For Business Connect NSW
It looks like the curtain is falling on Business Connect NSW. The NSW government has decided not to continue funding the program beyond September 30, 2025. This means that after years of providing free, tailored advice to small businesses, the service will be winding down. It’s a bit of a shock for many, especially considering how many businesses have relied on it.
Government Decision To Cease Funding
The decision to pull the plug on Business Connect NSW wasn’t exactly front-page news, but it’s a significant one. The program, which started back in 2017, was designed to give small businesses and startups a leg up. It offered up to eight hours of free advice each year, which for many was a lifeline. However, as part of the 2025-26 state budget, the funding just wasn’t renewed. Service NSW confirmed that they’re working with the current providers to manage the wind-down and let existing clients know what’s happening.
Impact Of The Program’s Closure
So, what does this actually mean for businesses? Well, it means losing a key source of free, expert guidance. Business NSW CEO Daniel Hunter has voiced concerns, calling the program the only free service available for small businesses to sort out problems and look at growth. For many owners, especially those just starting out or running lean operations, this wasn’t just about getting advice; it was about gaining confidence and a sounding board when things got tough. Losing this support could leave a pretty big hole, particularly for those who might not have the cash for private consultants.
Timeline Of The Business Connect NSW Shutdown
The official end date for Business Connect NSW is September 30, 2025. From October 1, 2025, the program will no longer be accessible. Service NSW is currently in communication with providers to ensure a smooth transition for those actively using the service. This means any ongoing advice or support under the program will need to be completed before this date. It’s a pretty firm deadline, so businesses that were planning to use the service should act fast.
- Now until September 30, 2025: Businesses can continue to access services through Business Connect NSW.
- October 1, 2025 onwards: The Business Connect NSW program will officially cease operations.
- Post-September 30: Businesses will need to look for alternative support options.
The closure of Business Connect NSW marks the end of a significant government initiative aimed at supporting the state’s small business sector. While the program had its costs, reviews suggested it provided a strong return on investment by helping businesses to start, grow, and overcome challenges, ultimately contributing to the state’s economy. Its absence leaves a gap in accessible, expert advice for many entrepreneurs.
It’s a bit of a worry, isn’t it? You’ve got businesses that have grown thanks to this program, like Eva Dellow’s joinery company, Masswood, which saw its turnover triple after getting help with its growth strategy. Now, that kind of direct, expert support is going to be harder to find for free. It really makes you wonder what comes next.
Navigating The Transition Post-Business Connect NSW
So, Business Connect NSW is wrapping up on September 30, 2025. It’s a bit of a shake-up for small businesses that relied on that free advice. The government’s decided not to keep funding it, which leaves a bit of a gap. For years, this program offered up to eight hours of tailored help each year, covering everything from getting started to sorting out tricky business problems. It was a lifeline for many, especially those just starting out or running solo operations.
What Replaces Business Connect NSW Support?
Right now, the main government alternative being pointed to is the Business Concierge service. It’s meant to help with the basics, like setting up and figuring out government paperwork. But, and this is a big ‘but’, it doesn’t really offer the same kind of in-depth, specialist advice that Business Connect did. Think financial troubleshooting, strategic planning, or really digging into growth opportunities – that’s where Business Connect shone, and it seems the Concierge service falls short here. It’s more about directing you to the right place than giving you the expert advice itself.
Challenges For Small Businesses
This closure means small business owners, particularly those in regional areas or without a strong professional network, might struggle to find the specific help they need. The loss of a centralised, free advisory service means business owners will likely have to spend more time and potentially money searching for the right guidance. It’s not just about finding an advisor; it’s about finding the right advisor for a specific problem. Without Business Connect acting as a connector, this becomes a much bigger task. It could mean missed opportunities or delays in solving critical business issues.
Advice For Business Owners
What can you do? First off, don’t panic. Make the most of the remaining Business Connect services before they disappear. Look into what the Business Concierge offers, but be realistic about its limitations. Start building your own support network now. Connect with other local business owners, join industry groups, and explore professional services – even if it’s just for specific, one-off advice. Think about what kind of support you’ve relied on from Business Connect and actively seek out alternatives that match those needs. It might mean a bit more legwork, but staying proactive is key.
The shift away from a program like Business Connect highlights the ongoing need for accessible, expert advice for small businesses. While government services aim to fill gaps, the specialised nature of Business Connect’s support is proving difficult to replicate.
Here’s a quick rundown of what to consider:
- Assess your needs: What kind of advice did you get from Business Connect? What will you need going forward?
- Explore existing government services: See what else is available through Service NSW or other state/federal bodies.
- Research private advisors: Look for consultants, accountants, or mentors who specialise in your industry or specific business challenges.
- Network actively: Build relationships with other business owners and industry professionals.
- Consider online resources: Many platforms offer business advice, though quality can vary.
The Broader Impact On NSW Small Businesses
The decision to wind down Business Connect NSW has sent ripples through the state’s small business community, sparking concerns about the future accessibility of vital support. While the government points to other services, many business owners and advocates feel these don’t quite fill the void left by the program’s tailored advice and expert guidance. This isn’t just about losing a service; it’s about potentially impacting the very fabric of economic growth and innovation in NSW.
Concerns From Business Advocates
There’s a fair bit of chatter from people who work closely with small businesses, and the general feeling is one of worry. They’re concerned that without Business Connect, a significant chunk of support is just vanishing. It’s not like there’s a perfect, direct replacement ready to go. Advocates are worried about how this will affect businesses, especially those that really relied on the program’s personalised help. They reckon it could make things tougher for startups and existing businesses trying to get ahead.
Accessibility Of Future Support
So, what’s actually available now? Service NSW offers a Business Concierge service, which is handy for sorting out basic stuff like licences and permits. But here’s the rub: it doesn’t offer the same depth of advice that Business Connect did. Think of it like this: the concierge can help you find the right tools, but Business Connect helped you figure out how to use them to build something complex. For businesses in regional areas, or those run by women or people from diverse backgrounds, this lack of specialised support could be a real hurdle. It’s a bit like trying to fix a leaky roof with just a bucket – it might catch some drips, but it’s not a proper solution. The closure of Business Connect means many small business owners will have to navigate themselves through complex challenges.
The Role Of Business Connect NSW In Economic Growth
It’s easy to see Business Connect as just another government program, but its impact goes deeper. For every dollar spent on it, the program reportedly returned $1.50 in benefits. That’s a pretty good return on investment, right? It helped businesses avoid closing down – the rate of businesses failing dropped significantly for those who participated. This isn’t just about saving individual businesses; it’s about jobs, innovation, and keeping the NSW economy humming. When businesses thrive, communities do too. Axing a program that demonstrably helps businesses survive and grow feels like a step backwards for the state’s economic future.
The program’s effectiveness was highlighted by a review that found it led to fewer businesses failing. For instance, the number of businesses closing or being sold in the year after participating dropped from 12% to just 1%. This suggests a tangible positive effect on business longevity and, by extension, economic stability.
Financial Investment And Program Effectiveness
Government Funding For Business Connect NSW
The NSW government put a fair bit of money into Business Connect over the years. While the exact total spent across its entire run isn’t something they’ve fully laid out, we do have some figures. For instance, in the 2020-21 financial year alone, they poured $39.3 million into the program to beef it up and get more advisors on board. Then, in 2022, another $5 million was set aside specifically to help women-owned businesses. These numbers don’t even include the regular yearly funding or other smaller grants that were likely given out. It’s safe to say the total investment was quite substantial, likely much higher than the publicly disclosed amounts.
Review Findings On Program Benefits
An independent review of the program back in 2021 actually found some pretty good things. For every dollar the government spent on Business Connect, it reportedly brought back $1.50 in benefits. That’s a pretty solid return on investment. The review also pointed to evidence suggesting that businesses which used the program were less likely to go bust. The numbers showed a big drop in businesses failing or being sold in the year after they participated, going from 12% down to just 1%. This suggests the program wasn’t just a nice-to-have, but actually helped keep businesses afloat and growing.
The True Cost Of Business Connect NSW
So, what’s the real cost? Well, it’s a bit tricky to pin down the exact figure for the entire program’s lifespan. We know about the big injections of cash, like the $39.3 million in 2020-21 and the $5 million for women-led businesses in 2022. Last financial year alone, it cost taxpayers about $10 million. But with ongoing annual funding and various targeted allocations over the years, the total amount spent is probably a lot higher than what’s easily found in public records. It’s a significant investment, and understanding the full financial picture is important when considering its closure. The program was seen by many as an investment in the state’s economy, not just a handout, helping to create jobs and innovation.
The program’s closure comes at a time when business insolvencies in NSW are on the rise. This suggests that support services like Business Connect were filling a genuine need, especially for smaller operations that might not have the resources to weather tough economic conditions on their own. Losing this kind of assistance could make things even harder for businesses already facing challenges.
- Positive Impact: Businesses reported improved strategic planning and better execution of tasks.
- Confidence Boost: Advisors helped entrepreneurs overcome uncertainty and self-doubt.
- Reduced Failure Rates: Evidence suggests a significant decrease in business closures among participants.
If you’re a small business owner in NSW looking for support, you might want to check out the NSW Business Connect program details to understand what was available. It’s a shame it’s ending, but knowing what it offered can help you look for similar services elsewhere.
Seeking Alternative Business Support
So, Business Connect NSW is wrapping up. That leaves a bit of a gap, doesn’t it? For many small business owners, it was that go-to place for free, expert advice. Now, you’re probably wondering where to turn next. It’s not like you can just magic up a business mentor or a financial whiz off the street. The good news is, there are still options out there, though they might look a bit different.
Exploring Other Government Services
Service NSW still has its Business Concierge service. Think of it as a starting point. They can help you with the basics – getting your business registered, figuring out licences and permits, and pointing you towards general government resources. It’s handy for those initial setup hurdles, but it’s not quite the same as the tailored, in-depth advice Business Connect offered. It’s more about directing you to the right forms than helping you strategise your next big move.
- Business Concierge: Good for initial setup, licences, and general government process guidance.
- Service NSW Website: Offers a range of information on regulations and business structures.
- Industry-Specific Government Agencies: Depending on your sector, there might be other government bodies with specific resources or grants.
Private Sector Alternatives
This is where you’ll likely need to open your wallet a bit. The private sector is full of consultants, advisors, and coaches. You can find specialists in just about any area – marketing, finance, HR, operations, you name it. The upside is you can often find someone with very specific skills that match your exact needs. The downside? It can get expensive, fast. You’ll need to do your homework to find reputable professionals who offer good value.
- Business Coaches: Help with strategy, goal setting, and accountability.
- Financial Advisors/Accountants: For managing your money, tax, and financial planning.
- Marketing Consultants: To help you reach more customers.
- Legal Advisors: For contracts, compliance, and any legal queries.
Finding the right private advisor often comes down to a good recommendation or a thorough vetting process. Don’t be afraid to ask for references or have an initial chat to see if they’re a good fit for your business and your budget.
Building Your Own Support Network
Sometimes, the best support comes from your peers. Think about connecting with other business owners in your area or industry. Joining local chambers of commerce, industry associations, or even just informal networking groups can be incredibly beneficial. You can share challenges, swap ideas, and learn from each other’s experiences. It’s a more organic way to get advice and support, and often, it’s free or low-cost.
- Industry Associations: Connect with others in your specific field.
- Local Chambers of Commerce: Great for general business networking and local insights.
- Online Forums & Social Media Groups: Platforms like LinkedIn or dedicated Facebook groups can be goldmines for advice.
- Mentorship Programs: Look for formal or informal programs where experienced business owners can guide newer ones.
So, What’s Next?
It’s a bit of a bummer that Business Connect is finishing up. For years, it’s been a go-to for heaps of small businesses in NSW, offering that free advice when things got tough or when you just needed a bit of a nudge in the right direction. While the government says the Business Concierge service is still there for basic stuff, it’s clear it won’t fill the gap left by the specialist advice Business Connect provided. This means more pressure on business owners to figure things out themselves, which, let’s be honest, can be a real headache when you’re already juggling a million things. It’s worth keeping an eye on what happens next and if any new support options pop up. In the meantime, if you’re feeling a bit lost with your business finances, maybe look into services that can help with that specific area. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, even if it’s not the exact program you’re used to.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Business Connect NSW?
Business Connect NSW was a program that helped small businesses and people starting new businesses in NSW. It gave them free advice from experts for up to eight hours each year. This help could be for starting, running, or growing their business.
Why is Business Connect NSW ending?
The NSW Government decided not to keep funding the program in the next budget. So, it will stop being available after September 30, 2025. This means the free expert advice will no longer be offered.
What happens to small businesses that need help now?
The government says businesses can still get some help through the Business Concierge service. This service can help with starting a business and finding government information. However, many people feel it doesn’t offer the same deep advice that Business Connect did.
Will there be any other free help for businesses?
It’s not clear if there will be a direct replacement for Business Connect’s free, expert advice. Some worry that businesses, especially those in country areas or from different backgrounds, might find it harder to get the support they need without this program.
Was Business Connect NSW effective?
Yes, reports suggest it was very effective. For every dollar spent, it helped businesses gain more value. It also seemed to help fewer businesses close down. Many business owners found it incredibly useful for gaining confidence and making smart plans.
What should I do if I need business advice after September 2025?
You can check out the NSW Government’s Business Concierge service. You might also need to look into private business advisors or consultants. Building your own network of contacts and mentors could also be really helpful.
