The City of Joondalup is setting a benchmark for local governments with its innovative small business support initiatives – that is the view of Minister for Small Business Jackie Jarvis MLC who spoke at the City’s launch of four Business Support Programs to help local businesses grow and succeed in 2025.
The Minister, who is also the Minister for Forestry, Agriculture and Food, spoke about the pivotal role of small businesses in driving economic growth and innovation in the region. The remarks formed part of her keynote address at the business sundowner, Shaping Up, at Joondalup Reception Centre on Friday 23 November.
Sam Collins, Senior Economist at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA (CCIWA) also presented and led discussion on emerging economic trends and expectations for 2025.
Held in conjunction with the Joondalup Business Association, the City unveiled its 2025 Business Support program, highlighting targeted support to help local enterprises succeed.
The four categories will give businesses in Joondalup the opportunity to build skills and capacity to help them grow:
- micro/ home-based business
- small /medium business
- skill-specific business
- leadership and personal development
Each program is free to the participants and expressions of interest will open in early 2025 on the City's website.
Joondalup Business Association President Neil Gerard celebrated the winners of the 2024 Joondalup Business Awards which were showcased at this event, including Business of the Year, Quest Joondalup.
Joondalup Mayor Albert Jacob spoke of the City’s positive relationship with the Small Business Development Corporation, which recently celebrated its 40-year milestone, as well as the City’s commitment to ongoing improvements to the operating environment for small businesses across Joondalup.
“Building a strong business community is a team effort and ongoing collaboration between the City, the local businesses and key partners such as the SBDC is vital,” he said.
“By working together, we can provide support and resources to help our 13,000 local businesses that provide more than 56,000 jobs and generate over $7.8bn in each year.”
Mayor Jacob outlined City initiatives to attract more people into the Joondalup City Centre over the upcoming festive period.
These include the Central Walk Joondalup Christmas Markets on Friday 29 November, Friday 6 December and Friday 13 December, featuring live entertainment, free children's activities and market stalls.
Visitors can also explore festive light installations featuring augmented reality and interactive displays or join in seasonal activities at the Joondalup Library including music and craft and Furoshiki gift wrapping.
“The City invites you to meet up with friends and family for a sparkling Christmas in the Joondalup City Centre,” he said.
Read the full program of Christmas activities on the City's website.