City of Mandurah
Entrepreneurial Capacity Building Program
Contact: Natasa Perovec
Phone: 08 9550 3777
Email: natasa.perovec@mandurah.wa.gov.au
The Project
In an area of high unemployment and limited educational opportunities, the City of Mandurah has worked hard to identify and encourage locals who are willing to have a go at starting a business, but need practical advice on how to go about it.
Over five years, the City has delivered programs like Mumpreneur 101—for mums who want to operate a home-based business—and StartUp Smart Creative, for those wanting to learn how to create a product range for sale. Both programs are delivered over eight-week for beginners, with the City facilitating ongoing support for participants through active social media networks, group mentoring sessions and a resource library.
Community Outcomes
950 residents have participated in 24 courses, with around 65 per cent going on to register an Australian Business Number. It is estimated more than 80 full time jobs, and around 300 part-time jobs, have been created by course participants—contributing $6.51 million to Mandurah's gross regional product.
Next Steps
The City of Mandurah has developed two new next-level courses—Power Up and Leverage—to help previous program participants to assess their ongoing business, identify and address gaps, and design and implement social media strategies.