Whether you’re thinking about starting a business, just getting your idea off the ground, or already running a local business, join us on Wednesday, 30th April from 5:30pm at the Donnybrook Hotel Function Room for “Ready, Set, Start-Up!” This free event is designed for anyone exploring starting or growing their business. We especially welcome established business owners to share their insights — your experience could be invaluable to those just starting out.
Why Attend?
Starting a business is both exciting and challenging. Many business owners struggle with financing, regulations, and understanding market needs. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, nearly 60% of small businesses don’t survive their first three years, often due to insufficient planning (ABS, 2020).
Did you know that as of June 2023, the Donnybrook Balingup region is home to 740 registered businesses? What might surprise you is that over 500 of those are non-employing businesses—sole traders and self-employed individuals who are running everything from creative enterprises and professional services to trades and micro-retail. These business owners aren’t just filling a niche—they are the niche. They’re the ones doing the marketing, managing the books, delivering the service, and building relationships directly with their customers. Their contribution to our local economy is significant, yet their needs can often be quite different to those of larger businesses with staff.
That’s why events like “Ready, Set, Start-Up!” are so important. They’re designed with our whole business community in mind—but especially our sole traders and self-employed professionals who don’t always have access to the same networks, resources, or day-to-day collaboration as their employing counterparts.
While the remaining 230+ local businesses do a brilliant job supporting employment and training across the region, it’s the combination of these larger operations and our hardworking solo operators that creates a vibrant, resilient local economy. At “Ready, Set, Start-Up!”, we’re creating space for all business owners—whether you’re a team of one or one of many—to connect, learn, and grow. Because when our businesses are supported, our whole community benefits.
What to Expect
“Ready, Set, Start-Up!” addresses these challenges by creating connections between new and experienced business owners. Join us for an evening of:
- Practical advice from local success stories
- Networking with like-minded entrepreneurs
- Information and requests on local resources and support
Light refreshments will be provided.
📧 RSVP to secretary@dbchamber.com.au to secure your spot or let us know if you would like a 2 minute spot to share a story.
Join us as we come together to support and strengthen our local business community! Bring a friend for twice the fun.
If you can’t attend in person, but would like to be a part of the conversation get in touch or take part in our survey click on the button below – will take about 5 minutes.
