Small Business Website a Beacon

The NSW Government's recently revamped small business website, www.smallbiz.nsw.gov.au is an excellent resource for business people and those considering the leap into their own enterprise.

 When considering starting one's first business, the list of questions relating to the unknown is unending. So many good business ideas never get off the ground, or worse, are taken by someone else to make a fortune. The leading reason behind these entrepreneurial sparks going nowhere is lack of knowledge and understanding regarding how to start up and operate a new business.

 Similarly, the number of small businesses which fail within the first two years of operation is significant, with one of the major reasons being lack of business knowledge. What perpetuates the spiral is your typical start-up small business owner has little time or cash for formal business training. www.smallbiz.nsw.gov.au represents a resource for knowledge which is free and usable at anytime when you have time.

 The resources available at www.smallbiz.nsw.gov.au include a glossary of business terms, business assistance links, a HomeBiz Kit, a business relocation check-list and, most impressively, an excellent Small Business Tool Kit.

 This Small Business Tool Kit has audio and video presentations, checklists, calculators, and real-life case studies that give tips and solutions for managing everyday issues such as cash flow and marketing. The Tool Kit has four main sections, Check Readiness, Learn How, Test Knowledge and Start Planning.

 In Check Readiness there is excellent material covering is business right for you? And are you ready for business? There are also video presentations covering successful start up companies. The Learn How section tutors on marketing, finance, employment, legal, export, business planning and leadership. Budding entrepreneurs may assess their capabilities in those subjects using the Test Knowledge section while the Start Planning section clears the fog and provides a guide to action.