Structure and planning
Structure and planning helps you make smart decisions early on, so your business has a strong foundation to grow from. From choosing the right structure, to creating a business plan and getting expert advice, you’ll find practical steps to reduce risk and set yourself up for long-term success.
Business planning
A business of any size, and at any stage, needs a plan. Business planning allows you to reflect, set goals and forge a path to success.
Choosing the right business structure
Before you can start doing business, you’ll need to pick the right structure for your situation. The business structure you choose will impact your finances and risk, the amount of control you have and your ability to grow and sell the business.
Business and financial advice
Getting the right advice early can save you time, money and stress. Whether you’re starting out or growing your business, expert support – from financial guidance to business advice – can help you make confident, informed decisions.
Governance
Sometimes in business, you need to step back, review how things are going and strategise for success. This big picture planning is called governance. Getting input from others is key, whether you’re a solo director or you establish a board — a team who provide expertise and direction.
Strategy
Strategy helps you focus on what matters most to grow your business. From setting clear goals and understanding your finances to improving operations and marketing, this section gives you practical tools to make confident decisions and keep your business moving forward.
Marketing strategy
Marketing is crucial to a small business, but the broad scope it covers can make it tricky to know where to start. A marketing strategy will help you know who your customers are, give them the right information about your products or services, and help you reach new customers.
Business strategy
A good business strategy can be the difference between surviving and thriving. Creating the right strategy gives you clear goals and connects everything you do to those goals.
Strategic finance
Learning the language of finance can help you understand where you are and make confident decisions about your business finances.
Operations strategy
Operations is about everything you need to create your products and services, such as resources, processes and systems. Look at capacity, inventory and networks to build a good operations strategy.
Healthy business checklist
Use this easy-to-follow checklist to guide you through everyday actions you can do now to keep your business strong. Your healthy business will not only survive, but also thrive through challenges and change.
Growing your business
Growing your business gives you the tools to take your next step with confidence. Whether you're looking to innovate, build your brand, go digital, or connect with expert support, this section offers practical advice to help your business grow and adapt.
Innovate and collaborate
Innovation can grow your business. If you stay open to new ideas and adapt as things change, you can balance business-as-usual with exciting opportunities. Teaming up with other businesses can also pay off.
Building a brand
When you’re building a business, one of the things to think about is your brand. Branding is more than just design and marketing – it starts with your business name and grows from there.
Doing business online
If you’re thinking about selling online or how to improve your online presence, you’re in the right place. Check out the essentials, including what you need to think about, how to create user-friendly content and how to keep going.
Regional Business Partner Network
Join the Regional Business Partner Network to access opportunities for training, connections, and on-the-ground advice. Connect with a network of experts and resources in your region to help your business thrive.