Business Concierge service piloted in Woy Woy

Woy Woy Service NSW Centre is hosting a pilot program of a "Business Concierge" service, which one local businesswoman has already used.

Ms Maria Ramos has operated a coffee shop in Woy Woy for about three years and has won a few awards after being voted by customers as selling "the best coffee on the Coast".

A Business Concierge is "exactly what small business owners need", Maria said.

"I'm getting lots of information that I wouldn't have if I didn't have the Business Concierge," she said.

"These are things like incentives the government offers, lots of website links to information about, for instance, staff training, and business knowledge.

"I can ask anything, any time and I'm going to get an answer and that's really helpful.

"This is a great tool for small business owners," Maria said.

The face-to-face and individual service is a one-stop shop for people who are opening or expanding a small business.

A Business Concierge will help with registrations, licences, permits and applications to make sure they are complete before submitting them to councils or agencies.

The Business Concierge will also help with applying for grants and financial support as well as introductions to specialist support and advisory networks.

Member for Terrigal Mr Adam Crouch said the service complemented the existing personalised phone support from the Business Concierge team as well as the online guidance outlining the regulations and licences needed to start a small business.

"The phone service has already helped 5000 customers start or grow their business, with owners of cafes, restaurants and small bars saving up to 86 hours of effort, while slashing the time it takes to start a small bar by almost six months," Mr Crouch said.

"Less time spent dealing with government means more time to develop your business and commence operations.

"I encourage local business owners to learn more about this fantastic new initiative and make an appointment at Service NSW Woy Woy."

SOURCE

Interview (Sue Murray), 5 Dec 2019

Maria Ramos, BBF Cafe

Media release, 27 Nov 2019

Adam Crouch, Member for Terrigal

Website, 4 Dec 2019

Business Guides, Service NSW