Media Release - BSSB Launch

Small businesses invited to launch common-sense sustainability program on Wednesday February 6

A common-sense approach to sustainability is the focus of a new program for small businesses in Beaudesert Shire which will be launched on Wednesday February 6.

Small business owners, managers and key staff are encouraged to attend the launch of the new “Building Sustainable Small Business” (BSSB) program on Wednesday, February 6,
at the Centre for Beaudesert Arts and Culture, from 6.00pm to 7.00pm. Entry is free and refreshments will be served from 5.30pm.

“Today’s small business operators face many challenges in these changing times,” said Dr Sally MacKinnon of the Ethos Foundation, which is running the BSSB program in
partnership with Beaudesert Shire Council.

“Increasingly, environmental threats such as climate change, water scarcity and increasing fuel and energy costs are impacting on small and large businesses.”

“The BSSB program is focused on common sense, practical sustainability and will provide a great opportunity for small, local businesses to increase their prosperity, adaptability and resilience by understanding the approaching threats and opportunities and taking appropriate action.”

“The program is aimed at businesses employing up to 20 people particularly in the food, farming, agriculture, tourism and development industries as well as cottage and homebased businesses,” said Dr MacKinnon.

Popular speaker, Bob Cameron, Founder & Managing Director of Rockcote Enterprises Pty Ltd, will be guest speaker at the BSSB launch on February 6.

Rockcote is a nationally acclaimed business recognised for its innovative ‘people friendly’ products and its commitment to sustainable and regenerative business practices.

The evening launch will also include an interactive overview of the BSSB program where guests will have the opportunity to participate in a mini practical workshop.

The BSSB program has three key components:

A series of 3 free evening workshops for small businesses at Beaudesert, Mount
Tamborine and Boonah plus a free whole-of-shire strategic small business workshop;
A 9-month mentoring, training and leadership program for 10 small businesses;
and The development of the BSSB website, and the creation of a shire-wide sustainable
business network and sustainable business directory.

The two-year project is an Australian Government funded initiative under the Building Entrepreneurship in Small Business program. Funding and support are also provided by Beaudesert Shire Council and the Ethos Foundation.

To RSVP for the February 6 launch contact the Ethos Foundation by COB Monday
February 4.

For more information contact:

Jan McGregor
Ethos Foundation
Ph: 5533 3144
Mobile: 0418 792-161
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Sally MacKinnon
Ethos Foundation
Ph: 07 5533 3813
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