Small businesses in some of East Gippsland’s geographically isolated areas are the focus of East Gippsland Shire Council’s upcoming digital skills workshops.

The Digital Confidence Program is aimed at small business owners. It will give participants the opportunity to brush up on their digital skills and take their business to the next level. The sessions will be delivered by GippsTech.

The workshops assist business owners to enhance their digital skills and is open to business owners, farmers, start-ups, freelancers and more.

"Small businesses in our region face rare challenges, from geographical isolation to limited access to digital resources," East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Cr Tom Crook said.

“This program will provide much-needed support and guidance to businesses in some of our shire’s smallest communities to help them adapt and thrive in today's digital world.”

Topics will include cybersecurity; digital marketing; e-commerce; time-saving by reducing manual processes; disaster recovery plans relating to digital assets; information storage, and connectivity.

Workshops will be held at the following locations:

Orbost Tuesday 16 April, from 4.00 pm

Omeo Thursday 18 April, from 4.00 pm

Mallacoota Thursday 2 May, from 4.00 pm, Miva Miva Hall

‍Online sessions: Tuesday 7 May, (via Zoom) from 5.30 pm

Wednesday 16 May – Online workshop (via Zoom) from 5.30pm

Thursday 22 May - Online workshop (via Zoom) from 5.30pm

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Following the workshops, up to 50 local businesses will be provided with one-on-one mentoring with the digital experts from GippsTech.

"We understand the hurdles that small business owners face when it comes to embracing technology,” Dr Elena Kelareva, GippsTech CEO said. “Through this program, we aim to empower local businesses with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in an increasingly digital marketplace."

Business owners can register for the free workshops at East Gippsland Digital Confidence Program or by contacting GippsTech on 1300 713 368.

This initiative is made possible through joint funding from the Victorian and Commonwealth governments.

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