Small businesses across the Limestone Coast are now engaging professional services free of charge through Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast’s (RDALC) Expert Connection program. Developed in response to the severe impact COVID-19 has had on small businesses across the region, Expert Connection is an expansion of RDALC’s existing small business support program, providing businesses significantly impacted by COVID-19 with free one-on-one, professional advice.
“It’s wonderful to have the program up and running with business owners and operators now accessing our experts’ services,” said Rachael Ashman, Manager, Business and Workforce Development. “We’ve worked hard behind the scenes to secure the services of over a dozen top performing business advisors and now we’re keen to get more local businesses accessing these supports,” she said.
RDALC’s recently appointed Chair, Evan Flint knows too well the impact COVID-19 has had across the region, having recently been part of RDALC’s Regional Roadshows, meeting with local businesses across the region.
“The Roadshow events provided the chance for me to hear firsthand the challenges our local businesses have been experiencing in recent times,” he said. “RDALC have taken this intel on board and are focused on ensuring that the support available through Expert Connection is in line with the needs of our businesses,” he said.
“We are very aware that different businesses have different needs, some people might need to access a qualified bookkeeper, accountant or digital consultant – whereas others may need a HR consultant or a lawyer,” said Ms Ashman. “The importance of doing so in a confidential, tailored and private setting, whereby the conversation can be frank and fearless is key” she said.
The Expert Connection program fully funds up to 3 hours access for participating small businesses. Once eligible participants sign up for Expert Connection, RDALC provide a list of experts who have agreed to assist with the program. The participant then gets to select who they would like to see, make the appointment and meet with them privately.
Small businesses owners and operators that are interested in accessing these services, are encouraged to visit the website www.rdalc.org.au/expertconnection or speak directly to Rachael Ashman, Manager, Business and Workforce Development on 0439 848 624 or email rachael@rdalc.org.au
