THE gateway is open to give SME’s in Brisbane access to like minded traders.
The SME Association of Australia (SMEAA) has launched a website and networking concept offering group buying facilities, professional advice and eLearning support to small businesses.
It will publish a magazine, hold regular events, awards and PitchFest programs, and forge links with international SME associations to help members increase global knowledge and networks.
SMEAA chairman Matthew Johnson says Brisbane traders will reap the rewards of the not-for-profit Australia-wide body, launched at the MyBiz Expo in Sydney in October.
He says the association is unique in that it offers a platform for Queensland-based SME’s to pitch across not only state borders but internationally.
“We need to get up to speed,” says Johnson.
“Our counterparts overseas have been doing this for a long time, and we must too.
“There are over 5 million SME’s in Australia who represent more than 95 per cent of trade, so of course this will be pivotal in how Brisbane businesses can not only find assistance but work with each other.”
SMEAA membership is open to sole traders, small and medium sized enterprises, corporate partners, government bodies, associations, NFP organisations, SME suppliers and future business people, such as school and university students.
It aims to reach 10,000 new members by the end of 2012 and 50,000 by 2017.
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