One year of supporting women in business

More than 900 women have participated in the SA Government’s Women in Business Program in its first year of operation.

An initiative in South Australia’s Small Business Strategy 2023-2030 and developed by the Office for Small and Family Business, the $4 million Women in Business program is supporting women across the state and creating a strong community of business owners, peers and mentors.

In this first year alone, more than 800 women have participated in mentoring, 170 have attended workshops and more than 270 women have attended forums across three separate programs, delivered by Adelaide Business Hub, behind closed doors and HERstory: Business Collective at the Port Adelaide Football Club, which have provided opportunities for women in different stages of their business journey.

Women taking part in the program have shared their experiences of the program and what made the most impact for them.

“The Women in Business Program is really great for building confidence, connecting with others and for personal growth,” said Natalie Oliveri, Director and Founder, Creative Therapy Adelaide.

“The Women in Business Program was a success for me because it gave me the confidence to get online, and promote my business. My mentor was amazing… she came up with great ideas and it was easy for me to implement,” said Irena Melino, Business Owner, Wild Ivy Studio.

“It’s been like a missing piece of the puzzle for me… My advice would be, get rid of the self-doubts. You already have what it takes to make it,” said Dipleen Arneja, Managing Director, Aeon Disability Support Services.

Watch more stories from successful Women in Business Program participants.

Register your interest in learning more about the Women in Business Program in 2024.