Register now for Micro and Small Business Day

Published on 02 June 2025

Small business owners, creatives, freelancers, farmers and aspiring entrepreneurs – don’t miss your chance to be part of Mount Alexander Shire’s Micro and Small Business Day, happening across Castlemaine on Friday 27 June.

This free, full-day event features more than 20 practical workshops, expert panels, mentoring sessions and a vibrant business expo – all tailored to help you grow your business, build connections, and stay ahead of the curve.

Program highlights include:

• Farmers Forum – offers locals working in farming and agriculture a space to share stories, hear expert advice and find support.
• Creative Business at The Mill – learn how to price your work, stabilise income and build your creative brand from those doing it locally.
• Circular Economy Leadership – see how local businesses are turning sustainability into a competitive edge.
• Business Essentials workshops – choose from sessions on marketing, social media, AI, cash flow, funding, business structures, succession and more.

  New additions to the program include:

• Outlook for Business – expert panel bringing together industry and government leaders to explore the major shifts influencing our local economy – from climate impacts to workforce trends. Panel chaired by Mayor Rosie Annear with Maree Edwards MP, Member for Bendigo West joining the panel.
• Business Expo: One-Stop Support Hub – connect with mentors, government agencies, funding bodies, legal advisors, training providers and more. One-on-one mentoring will also be available via the Business Victoria Small Business Bus (bookings essential).

“Together with our event partners we’re thrilled to offer such a dynamic and diverse program for our community,” said Merryn Tinkler, Manager Economy and Culture at Mount Alexander Shire Council.

“The day is a fantastic opportunity for small and micro businesses in the region to connect, get advice from experts, and learn more about how to run a sustainable, successful business.”

“We’ve had a strong response to the huge range of what’s on offer in the program, and we anticipate some sessions to sell out,” said Ms Tinkler.

“Don’t leave booking your place to the last minute! All tours, workshops, mentoring and panel discussions are free, but places are limited and we strongly encourage people to register early to secure your place.”

Micro and Small Business Day culminates in a casual networking trail, hosted by Business Mount Alexander.

“You don’t have to attend everything,” said Ms Tinkler. “Even one session could give you the spark, the contact, or the confidence you need.”

View the program for Micro and Small Business Day and book your place at: www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Business-and-Growth/Micro-and-Small-Business-Day-2025

Micro and Small Business Day is hosted by Mount Alexander Shire Council, with support from Castlemaine Mail/Midland Express, Workforce Australia, Castlemaine Community House, Workspace Australia, StartUp Central Victoria and Business Mount Alexander.