As we now transition into the scale-up phase, ongoing access to expert opinions and professional advisory services becomes even more crucial. Without the continuation of support like Business Connect, securing equivalent expert assistance from the open market would impose significant financial strain on our growing business. Based on current market rates, obtaining comparable professional support would represent a substantial five-figure investment, creating an additional barrier at a pivotal moment of expansion. Continued access to affordable and professional advice similar to what Business Connect offers would significantly alleviate these financial pressures, enabling sustained growth and increased opportunities for success. Unique businesses require a tailored and flexible approach to effectively support their early-stage growth and establishment. A one-size-fits-all method does not adequately address the distinctive challenges faced by startups as they transition from initial market entry to scaling operations.

- Omnis Res

The Business Connect Program has been instrumental in growing our Fine Art Print business—from its early beginnings to the successful and steadily expanding Print Studio we operate today. We first connected with our advisor during the height of the COVID-19 restrictions, a time when our region of Albury-Wodonga was severely impacted by border closures. With businesses on both sides struggling, we found ourselves under immense pressure, uncertain how to keep things afloat, let alone build toward sustainability. Our advisor took the time to truly understand us—our business operations, challenges, and aspirations for growth. He guided us to see our business not just as a series of problems to solve, but as a whole, living entity that could be shaped strategically rather than reactively. With the tools, knowledge, and support he provided, we were able to develop practical resources tailored to our needs. We built a Business Model Canvas, created financial projections, drafted realistic budgets, and implemented a clear, goal-oriented strategy. This structure helped us stay focused and make confident, informed decisions even during uncertain times. The skills we’ve gained through the Business Connect Program have proved invaluable—not just for our current operations, but for navigating new ventures, adapting to market shifts, and managing growth. We are now more resilient, proactive, and confident managers, equipped to lead our business with purpose and clarity. The defunding of the Business Connect Program means we will no longer have access to the support and expert guidance that has been crucial to our development. Our advisor has been more than just a consultant—he has been a vital part of our support system in a landscape where many small businesses operate in isolation. This program offered more than one-off advice; it provided ongoing, trusted assistance that we could rely on whenever we encountered new challenges, explored different opportunities, or needed help staying on track. Replacing this invaluable program with a scripted concierge service represents a significant loss for the small business community. It overlooks the complexity, individuality, and multifaceted nature of running a small business. The new model simply cannot offer the depth of understanding, tailored guidance, or continuity of support that Business Connect delivered. For many of us, this change is not just disappointing—it’s a loss of vital support.

— JRP Studios

Since June 2025, I have had the opportunity to meet with Nick and talk about my business and how we can best move forward as a business. I have found these meetings insightful and they have given me the opportunity to look more deeply in my business and see the things that I need to do to improve our business. I have appreciated Nick's advice and the discussions I have had. I really appreciate having had the opportunity to use this service as I believe strongly that it will help me make the changes necessary to grow.
- Da-mell Air Conditioning and Heating

The ability to connect directly with clients, receive inquiries, and track interactions all in one place saves time and improves efficiency. Additionally, Business Connect provides valuable tools such as insights into customer behaviour, which help guide marketing decisions and service improvements. For a small or growing business, this level of visibility and customer engagement is a major advantage. Looking ahead, Business Connect can support me further by helping build stronger partnerships, gaining more exposure, and accessing resources tailored to scaling up operations. It acts as both a marketing tool and a relationship-building platform, which are essential for sustainable growth.

- RS Speech Pathology

I'm writing to share my experience with the Business Connect program and express my deep concern about the NSW Government's decision to end this vital service on 30 September 2025. The Business Connect program has been absolutely invaluable to my business this year. The free, tailored advice and one-on-one support I've received has made such a significant difference to how I operate and grow my business. Without this program, I honestly don't believe I would be nearly as far along in my business journey as I am today. The localised, hands-on approach that Business Connect offers is exactly what small businesses like mine need, especially during these challenging times with rising costs and economic uncertainty. Having access to confidential, expert advice has given me the confidence to make important decisions and tackle challenges I might have otherwise struggled with on my own. It's deeply concerning that such a long-standing, trusted service that has clearly delivered results for over 60,000 businesses is being discontinued. The program's track record speaks for itself – helping sustain more than 15,000 jobs and providing over 211,000 hours of support demonstrates its real value to the NSW business community. As a small business owner, I'm asking the NSW Government to reconsider this decision. Programs like Business Connect are not just nice-to-have services – they're essential infrastructure that helps small businesses survive and thrive. The ripple effects of ending this program will be felt across communities throughout NSW. We need the government to understand that small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and we require ongoing, accessible support to navigate the complex challenges we face. Business Connect has been that lifeline for so many of us. I hope my voice, along with many others in the business community, can help demonstrate just how crucial this program is and influence future support for small businesses in NSW.

— CG Creations Leather

Business Connect has been an invaluable resource, supporting my journey from the initial startup phase of my business three years ago all the way through to developing new products and strengthening key partnerships and collaborations today. Without their assistance, especially during those critical early stages, my business wouldn't be as sustainable or successful as it is now. The tailored advice, ongoing mentorship, and phenomenal support I've received, specifically suited to my business, our region, and my skill set, have been truly instrumental. It would be a significant loss if this support were not available in the future, particularly for other budding entrepreneurs. Starting and running a business is incredibly challenging, and Business Connect was a true game-changer for me. We've grown exponentially, from a sole proprietorship to an award-winning enterprise employing over 13 casual staff, and a large part of that success can be attributed to our Business Connect advisors

— Navigate Expeditions

I have taken advantage of several Business Connect providers to help me figure out business strategies, work out a business plan, get better at marketing and grow my business. It was invaluable help! This program is such a great support to small businesses. The only reason people don't take more advantage of it is because they don't know it exists! I've developed great relationships with the providers I've used, and they've connected me with other small businesses as well. It's such a great way to develop a community of support. It would be a real shame to lose access to this expertise and bespoke advice.
- Helen Perris Music Studio

When COVID hit and borders closed, our wedding photography business came to a grinding halt almost overnight. With travel and social restrictions in place, everything stopped—bookings dried up, events were cancelled, and even weddings that had already been paid for had to be refunded. We suddenly found ourselves without an income and in debt from those refunds. With no new work coming in and no clear way forward, we were stuck in limbo for nearly two years. It was stressful, uncertain, and honestly, pretty overwhelming. But we made the most of the downtime—diving into study, learning new skills, improving our editing processes, and expanding into new areas like commercial photography. By the time the industry started moving again, it looked completely different. Some of our regular venues had shut down, many of our contacts had changed careers, and the whole landscape had shifted. Our once well-established business of 10 years now felt like a brand-new startup. That’s when we found the Business Connect Program, and more importantly, our advisor, Court. At our first session, we were still in damage-control mode, unsure of what to do next. But Court helped us sort through the chaos and start building again, step by step. The support we received through the program was a game-changer. It was free, it was practical, and it was exactly what we needed at the time. We had 8 hours of one-on-one support, broken down into focused sessions with clear goals and strategies. That time was packed with value—and honestly, we couldn’t have afforded to hire a consultant ourselves when things were at their worst. Now, thanks to the guidance we received, we’ve rebuilt a stronger, more resilient business with three separate income streams and markets. We’re not just back—we’re better. And we absolutely wouldn’t be here without that support.

- Jason Robins Photography

My business connect adviser has helped me transition from a product-based business to a service-based business. They've helped me to fine-tune communications, determine my ideal client and how to market to those clients.

- Needle vs Thread

Business Connect really helped me to get my small business off the ground when I first started over 3 years ago. I was very new to running a small business. What business connect offered for free helped me to learn how to run a small business. I think if I didn't have this platform of a free service, I don't think my business would have survived. From start-up support to marketing and social media, everything helped me get my business to where it is today. I still use Business Connect regularly, mainly for marketing and social media advice, because I wouldn't be able to afford to pay for it myself through the business; it's a very expensive cost for a small business to sustain.
- Plant with Cass

My advisor, Gabrielle, has been invaluable at a time when I couldn't afford to get a business coach. The business has grown and is now employing 3 people, plus me. Look to Europe for examples on how to incubate and encourage small businesses and entrepreneurs. Compared with the rest of the world, starting a small business in Australia is very hard, and there is little support. Killing off funding is going to kill off new enterprises and jobs, particularly in rural areas.
- Foxwash Window Cleaning

I have been fortunate to meet a variety of coaches- online, in group sessions and one-on-one. I am in the process of relaunching my business, and without the valuable support I received, I doubt I would have continued - I would have closed my business and walked away from a service I believe is needed within my niche of working with expectant and new mums. I was able to grasp new skills in a way that I could understand. I got individual support that targeted my issues rather than generic information. I feel I'm further ahead in my business because of the information I received. I was able to have more control of my business by being able to build my own webpage, set up my social media, understand my financials, and receive ideas I could include in my business that I would never have thought of.
- The Lactation Coach

Business Connect has been invaluable in my first year of running a business. I have had incredibly beneficial meetings with several of their incredible mentors, and I am so disappointed that the government is going to pull this vital resource for businesses. Please reconsider! Our small businesses are the lifeblood of the nation!
- Big Stories Little Fims

As a sole trader, that kind of guidance is invaluable. With Lisa’s help, I was able to establish strong foundations, grow quickly and respond to market changes with agility. Without her support – and the Business Connect program – my business simply wouldn’t be where it is today. This is a much-needed service that we cannot afford to get rid of. Small businesses are suffocated, and you're taking away one of our only lifelines.

- Conscious Architecture

Being self-employed with a small business is lonely and scary, and difficult to be educated in all areas of running a business. Knowing Business Connect is there to talk to, share concerns with someone who understands and is non-judgmental, and support is vital to help maintain good mental health. I don't think I would have stuck with my business without this service being available.

- Luv Ya Glasses

Business Connect has been a lifesaver for my business. I am self-employed with a few different hats. Entering the online space has been a steep learning curve for me. Having invested heavily in this education business, I could not afford the marketing or business expertise myself. Business Connect has enabled me to streamline and promote my business in a crowded space online. Without their knowledge and open willingness to provide it, all my efforts would have gone to waste. My Course is now visible and literally saving the lives of those who are ageing or have a disability. I am eternally grateful.

- Safe Swallowing Education

I only realised this support was available 10 months into running my business. I was about to stop running my business because I could not figure out how to market my business properly. I have received some incredible support with getting a marketing strategy up and running. I cannot thank business support (Lisa and Dylan) enough. I am now feeling positive about my business. It is now visible to the community/my clients, and it is growing accordingly. Thankyou

- Puppy Talk

Business Connect advisor Lisa has been an invaluable support to me in starting my business in the Queanbeyan region. She's shared her raft of experience, contacts, insights and inspiration as I've grown my business from a concept to a business that I'm proud of. My content has been seen across social media by over 30,000 people in 6 months. None of this would have happened without Business Connect and Lisa's support and encouragement. Thank you
- Create Work Life Balance

Had a great experience with a local business connect advisor who helped me a huge amount when I started off my business last year - without his help, I would’ve spent countless hours having to research and potentially going down the wrong route, having never started a business on my own in the past. Such a great resource for NSW start-ups!

- Sunshine Aesthetic Clinic

Business Connect has immensely helped us during the initial days of setting up a business especially as we operate in financial space which is highly regulated and very expensive as a startup. Business connect advisors have been able to provide us the right guidance and how-to for basic setup thereby reducing churn rate of business.
- ShaBaas Pty Ltd

It has provided me with many online webinars, 1:1 mentor sessions with experts in Finance, Business Partnerships, Digital Marketing, and Google Marketing. Expert advice that I could not afford while trying to build my company on Jobseeker funds, without the financial backing that having a corporate job before starting my company would have allowed me. I have a huge potential market worldwide, and Business Connect is helping me get to them, one sensible step at a time.
- My Ticket Mate

Recently, I’ve been working closely with professional advisors, whose guidance has helped me better understand my business, refine my messaging, and begin making real progress with my social media presence. I’m now focused on developing clear, practical marketing strategies to help Hale Botanicals grow and reach more people who need truly gentle, microbiome-friendly skincare. My goal is to continue bridging the gap I saw in the market, offering products that make a difference for those with sensitive skin.
- Hale Botanicals

Starting a business is exciting, but it’s also unknown and scary. When I first had the idea for Collectiv. Accounting, I knew the kind of business I wanted to build. Something modern, clear, and genuinely supportive. But I didn’t have all the pieces yet. The Business Connect program helped me take that early vision and turn it into something real. I had the idea, but not all the answers. Having someone to talk things through with who could guide me around structure, pricing, systems and strategy gave me the clarity and confidence I needed when everything felt big and a bit unknown. It didn’t feel one-size-fits-all; it felt tailored to me, my goals, and the kind of business I wanted to create. Since then, Collectiv. has grown by over 1300% in our first year. We worked with nearly 200 clients across Australia and are growing rapidly. Every single one came to us through word of mouth, connection or social media. I’ve kept things intentionally personal and built a reputation around being real, relatable, and actually helpful. I started Collectiv. because the traditional model didn’t work for everyone. Business owners weren’t looking for once-a-year advice. They wanted real support from someone who understands the pressure and responsibility they carry. And the way we’ve grown reflects that. Clients come to us because we care. Because we take the time to explain things properly. Because we build relationships, not just process paperwork. That’s the part I’m most proud of. Collectiv. Accounting has also been named a finalist in both regional and national awards, which is something I’m incredibly proud of, especially as a young business doing things differently in an industry that hasn’t always evolved with the times.

- Collectiv. Acoounting

Business Connect has helped me throughout many challenges and changes over the past 4 years, through two roles and my own independent business. The advice has been invaluable, and I am disheartened to hear this program is ending.

-Merimbula Tourism Inc

Business Connect has been a lifeline on so many levels, a very vital tool for small business. I wish I had known about this vital resource sooner - every business needs that support. I urge the NSW Government to re-consider it's funding for vital lifeline of a service.
- Cosmo Cafe

Business Connect has been really helpful to me as a sole trader working in a rural area. Running a small business can feel pretty isolating at times, especially when you're juggling everything yourself. It’s been great having someone to talk to who understands what I’m trying to do and can offer practical advice. Fiona has helped me create more targeted social media content to support my marketing efforts, which has been really valuable. Having someone to bounce ideas off and get clarity on how to reach more people has given me more confidence to promote my business online. Going forward, I’d love more support around financial planning for micro-businesses like mine, help navigating rebates or grants, and more resources designed for rural or regional businesses. Just knowing there’s support out there makes a big difference when you’re trying to keep things going on your own. I want a fairer system that recognises how hard we work and the unique challenges of running a business in a rural community. With the right support, we can stay sustainable, keep serving our clients, and even grow.
- The Massage Joint

Business Connect matters deeply for startups like mine. I started my small business in 2020 as a new immigrant to Australia. I had little knowledge, few connections, and almost no guidance. While I operated a home-based beauty business, my dream was always to run it professionally. This business isn’t just a passion project — it’s how I support myself and my family. It is our livelihood. Just as I was beginning, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. For nearly two years, I was forced to shut everything down. It was heartbreaking. I had poured everything into starting this business, and it felt like it had ended before it truly began. Through the program, I met my advisor Jolie, who speaks my native language fluently. Jolie gave me business advice I had never received before. She showed me how to build a strong foundation, plan my finances, market my services, comply with legal requirements, and scale my business sustainably. Each session felt like a new door opening. It was empowering and transformative. As an immigrant woman entrepreneur who started with nothing, this kind of support was a turning point. his type of support isn’t optional. It’s essential. Many of us don’t have the resources or guidance that others may take for granted. We need help that’s practical, culturally aware, and easy to access. If this government program didn’t exist, I truly don’t know how I would have succeeded — or even continued. The support, patience, and knowledge I received turned my small idea into something real. Please don’t close this door. Every big business starts small, and if we remove support at the beginning, many promising businesses may never get the chance to grow.
- Flashy Lashies & Beauty

When I decided to launch LVA Architects in Sydney, I turned to Business Connect and was matched with advisor Jolie. Jolie shared her personal experience in running small businesses and guided me through the process of choosing the right structure, ultimately recommending a private company model that was suited for architectural services. She helped me set up essential systems for quoting, invoicing, and managing projects professionally. Jolie also offered valuable strategies for identifying the firm's target clients and establishing a strong online presence to attract new business. Her advice gave me the confidence to position LVA Architects in a competitive market with a clear value proposition. That early support laid the foundation for a successful and sustainable architectural practice.
- LVA Architects

Small businesses are the backbone of NSW industry, and small business owners naturally have to be focused on the products/services they are providing and are often not experts in the fields of finance/marketing/technology, etc. Business Connect is a fantastic service to be able to get one-on-one coaching in areas where I need help. Please, please continue to fund this essential service to small businesses.
- Corang Estate

Business Connect has been a game-changer for my business. After 3 years in business, I hit a rough patch last year, and someone recommended Business Connect. Since then, I've used the team for strategy, finance, marketing, website upgrade, LinkedIn help - all things that have helped me get back on track, and now my business is thriving. I'm still getting so much out of the program - as an example, I used the finance specialist last year to help me cut costs and stay afloat, and now I'm still working with him, but to help me with budgeting, forecasting, forward-planning - all things to help me not just stay in business but thrive. As part of this, I've been able to bring in people to my business, which I'm sure is helping the economy. The team are experts, independent and genuinely want to help me and my business. Please keep it going.
- Crescent People Pty Ltd

Without Business Connect I wouldn't be where I am today. Many small business owners like me start with little to no funding or support and simply cannot afford to pay the big bucks to get it. My small business has been an almost life-long dream and I would never have been able to do it without the amazing resources provided by Business Connect.
- Zoê Hannah Design & Digital

When I started my business, I had the passion and a good product, but I didn’t know how to grow or reach the right people. Like many small business owners, I was trying to do everything on my own and felt stuck. Then I connected with Business Connect, and everything changed. I was introduced to Karen, a business advisor who took the time to really understand my goals and challenges. She didn’t give me generic advice or point me to a chatbot or video. Instead, she helped me make strategic connections that were relevant to my industry and my region. Thanks to her support, I was introduced to B2B retailers who are now stocking my products. These are partnerships I never would have found on my own. But that was just the beginning. I also had the opportunity to work with Edwin, a highly knowledgeable social media guru. He helped me develop a clear and practical strategy to promote my brand online. Edwin showed me how to connect with my audience, grow my presence, and drive real sales. Today, I’m making regular sales through social media channels, and I’m reaching customers far beyond my local area. That was something I had struggled with for months before getting help. Because of Business Connect, my business is not only surviving, it’s thriving. My reach has grown significantly, my confidence as a business owner has skyrocketed, and I now feel like I’m building something sustainable. I couldn’t have done it without the expert advice, the real connections, and the tailored support I received. Programs like Business Connect aren’t just helpful. They are essential. They make a real difference in the lives of small business owners like me.

- Piste and Trail

We run an accounting and business advisory practice specialising in small businesses. The Business Connect program has been an integral part of this landscape for as long as I've been working in this space. Every single business we work with in their start-up phase uses this service, and it has been pivotal for success. They tend to be able to provide advice and help in so many diverse areas that it's very hard to quantify what they've done, other than that the success rate of small businesses is better than in other states.
- Panorama Business Advisory Pty Ltd

The support that Business Connects offers is something that cannot be replaced or replicated through another service. Each advisor I have dealt with has taken a personal approach to my business and has tailored my needs which has helped immensely. Please reconsider the replacement of this service with an all round service.

- Gallery Alchemy

The services with BC have been invaluable to my start-up. The advice from advisors has provided me with clarity and confidence. Their experience, knowledge and wisdom in their fields have helped me to make very important decisions financially and have made me revisit my business plan to adjust it to make sure I am on track. I have and continue to enjoy the experience of increasing my knowledge and being challenged to do better and be successful. Please do not cut the funding. The services they provide are beyond what can be measured monetarily.

- Pravina Life Coach

Business Connect advisor supported the vision of diversifying a farm business to develop a DA application for a tourism business for an eco village tourism development, as we are located 8 mins from the Alpine Way off to the NSW Snow fields Snowy Mountains.

- Wollondibby

When I first moved to Newcastle over 30 years ago, Business Connect supported my idea to enter the training industry by providing practical business tools and tailored tips that helped me get started. Their expert advice gave me the confidence and foundation I needed to launch my RTO.

- Vivacity Coaching & Consulting

It has been a huge time saver, ensuring I got it done right the first go and am working on the right things. Small business is the backbone of Australia; unless you plan to destroy this culture, taxpayer money must be invested in to supporting small businesses.

- Lead With Grace

Business Connect has been integral for me in not closing my doors. The support is second to none and is so important for any business owner to continue not only making a living but staying in an operating capacity to serve our community. Please reconsider the decision to cease the service. It is so incredible.

- Velocity Health and Fitness Club

For the past 2 years, Business Connect has been an absolute game changer for me. My advisor, Court gets my business. Court understands the Australian food and beverage industry challenges, cash flow issues, and the business goals I'm trying to achieve. It's not like those generic online resources that give you cookie-cutter advice. When I started the program 2 years ago, I didn’t even have a business name, nor did I know what my business would look like and who my customers should be. Court helped me make smart decisions fairly quickly, saved me money and heartache along the way. Court guided me with creating firstly my business name and my business model, which ended up being the most valuable thing I’ve learnt to date. Court seriously saved me from expensive mistakes and spotted opportunities I would have completely missed. When things got really tough and I lost motivation and direction, Court and then his team were there with regular check-ins and practical support that honestly kept my business going when I was feeling completely overwhelmed. What you're proposing to replace it with, generic scripts, online portals, and no real follow-up, just doesn't get what small businesses actually need. We're drowning in overload information already. What we need is someone who understands our specific situation and can guide us through it. Without Business Connect, I'm back to making big decisions on my own and hoping for the best. When the next crisis hits (and it will), I'll be figuring it out alone instead of having someone experienced to help me navigate it quickly. The connections Court provided me (these connections were startup businesses just like me )and the learning I've gotten through Business Connect have directly led to new customers that have provided me with extra revenue and better systems. Just knowing that support was there gave me the confidence to take risks and believe in my business, allowing me to grow my business.

- Nourish Consultancy

Don’t Let This Program End — Business Connect Changed My Life. In 2022, I discovered the Business Connect Program through the Service NSW website. At the time, I was just starting with a dream: to launch my own herbal business and sell high-quality organic products online. I had no background in e-commerce, branding, or website development — just passion, persistence, and an idea. That’s when I met Jolie, one of the program’s experienced and professional advisors. She didn’t just give me general advice — she helped me step by step, with care and patience. Together, we built my online store, The Tweed Herbs, from the ground up. Through Business Connect, I received tailored, independent advice that was directly relevant to my goals. Every question I had — from website setup and online marketing to packaging and logistics — was met with real, practical answers. And most importantly, it was free and delivered by someone who truly understood the journey of small business owners. Fast forward nearly two years, and The Tweed Herbs is a growing business with loyal customers, strong branding, and a professional online presence. None of this would have happened without the Business Connect Program. It gave me confidence. It gave me knowledge. It gave me support when I had no one else to turn to. Now, I’ve heard that this program will end on 30 September 2025. That news was heartbreaking — not just for me, but for the many people who are yet to benefit from what I had. his initiative is more than a government service — it’s a foundation for small businesses to survive and grow. It turns ideas into income. It creates jobs. It builds confidence. It’s one of the smartest and most impactful investments the government has made. If we want a strong small business community in NSW, we need to keep this support alive. I truly hope our voices are heard, and this life-changing program continues beyond 2025.
- The Tweed Herbs

I have been running my business for about 5 years; however, since I started to use Business Connect, I feel finally more confident with the knowledge and better outlook for the future! I couldn’t believe how important it was for me to get started with the support of Business Connect. My business would fail without this.

-Pawsitive Vibe Fitness