Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce
MANY small businesses are still operating without a website or any real online presence, and in today’s market, that’s a serious missed opportunity.
Consumer behaviour has shifted dramatically.
Shoppers now expect to browse products, services, reviews and contact information online before stepping foot in a store or picking up the phone.
Without a digital footprint, even the most well-loved local business can become invisible to new customers.
The good news is that building an online presence doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated, and there’s plenty of help available for those ready to make the move.
Business Queensland offers an excellent starting point.
Its online resources walk business owners through the basics of setting up websites, using social media, creating a strategy and improving digital visibility.
A free Digital Health Check tool is available to help assess current digital performance and provide tailored suggestions for improvement.
For those looking for more hands-on support, the Digital Solutions Program provides subsidised training and mentoring specifically designed for small businesses.
The program covers areas like website development, eCommerce, search engine optimisation and social media strategy.
It’s practical, accessible and geared towards getting results without overwhelming business owners.
Funding support is also available.
The Business Basics Grant Program offers small grants to help cover the cost of going digital – whether that’s creating a website, engaging a digital marketer, or investing in new software.
Business owners are encouraged to check the Queensland Small Business Grants Schedule regularly to stay on top of upcoming opportunities.
The Queensland Small Business Commissioner (QSBC) is another valuable resource.
The QSBC provides support, templates and guidance on navigating the digital landscape, while also assisting with business disputes, resilience planning and operational concerns.
Building an online presence doesn’t mean abandoning what makes a business unique.
It simply means being easier to find, easier to trust, and easier to connect with in an increasingly digital world.
For businesses ready to take that next step, the support is there, it’s just a matter of tapping into it.
