Business support
The Bega Valley and Eurobodalla Business Support Group was created to empower small businesses along the Far South Coast. Composed of a team of local business advisors, the BSG offers coordinated, community-led support with a range of free programs and services designed to help your business thrive and grow. You can find out more here.
The Bega Valley Business Forum represents 5 Chambers of Commerce in the Bega Valley.
Business chambers are also a valuable support, and can offer guidance and advice for local businesses. Consider joining as it’s also a great opportunity to network.
- Our Eden Chamber of Commerce
- Pambula Chamber of Commerce
- Our Merimbula Chamber of Commerce
- Tathra Chamber of Commerce
- Bega Chamber of Commerce
- Cobargo Chamber of Commerce
- Bermagui Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Inc
Service NSW’s Business Connect program supports businesses at all stages. You can find free, personalised advice with one-on-one sessions that cover key areas like business planning, marketing, and cash flow. You’ll also have access to an extensive library of online resources, plus events — both virtual and in-person — that offer practical tips to keep your business thriving.
The service is available throughout NSW and open to businesses of all types, providing up to 8 hours of support each year (subject to availability) to help you stay on track and ready for growth. Their online resources are a great first step! Find out more here.
Enterprise Plus is a not-for-profit business advisory that runs education programs, workshops, and webinars, across regional NSW and the ACT. Learn more here.
Tourism support
For tourism based businesses Destination Southern NSW offers handy guides and resources on how to write a grant application, apply for funding and more. Sapphire Coast Destination Marketing is the peak tourism body and offer great resources and networking event opportunities throughout the year.
Co-Working Spaces
Bega co-working is located in the heart of Bega and has a great range of options, wether you need a hot-desk, private room, space for team meetings or a larger space to host a conference or training.
Co-work Merimbula offers private offices and open, hot-desk style options with everything you need.
Grants
Grants can be a lifeline for business owners, helping to fuel growth, cover unexpected expenses, or fund new initiatives. Staying informed about available grants can open up opportunities to expand while alleviating some financial pressures. Regional business hubs, like the Bega Valley Business Support Group (BSG) or Regional Development Australia (RDA) Far South Coast, offer resources and guidance on applying for grants and understanding eligibility. Grant Guru offer grant and funding opportunities. Check out here: https://grantguru.com/au/rdasna.
Other grants, loans & financial support for businesses:
- Service.nsw.gov.au
- Business.gov.au
- Austrade.gov.au (Austrade grants for tourism related businesses)
Recovery and resilience
Check out the Bega Valley Shires Bushfire Planning and Recovery resources for more information on the BV Community Disaster Relief Fund, Hardship Assistance, BV Bushfire Recovery Support Services and more. Need some inspiration? Read some stories of local business recovery and resilience here.
Training & development
Training and development incorporates so many opportunities. From team building activities, networking events, manager and leadership training or traditional up-skilling workshops.
Ripe for Biz created by Kyla from Ripe, offers a different approach to team development, with workshops for women in business, teams, and anyone in leadership roles. She will guide you through meditation, breathe work, and help nourish and inspire your team.
Mental health
The Black Dog institute offers free workplace mental health training for NSW businesses. The training teaches practical tools to talk about and promote mental health at work, with three programs available for leaders, managers and employees. Learn more here.
- Mental Health – 1800 011 511, 24
- Link to Home – 1800 152 152, 24
- Anglicare Bega Valley – 1300 651 278, info@anglicare.org.au
- Rural Aid – 1300 327 624
- Salvation Army Bega – 02 6492 3332
- Primary & Community Care Services (PCCS) – 02 9477 8700
- Disaster Response Legal Service NSW – Free legal assistance 1800 801 529
- Fortem Australia Bega Valley, for first responders and their families – 0409 084 495
- National Emergency Management Agency
- The Disability Trust Bega 02 6413 5460
- Coordinare – South Eastern NSW PHN Visit
- Architects Assist – Referral service for pro bono or reduced fees, advice and services to those who lost their home in a natural disaster
- Bega Valley Shire Council – 02 6499 2222
