Stepping Up Mentor Program

The Stepping Up Program is aimed at established business owners committed to growing their business. Having established a new business many business owners then face the critical decision of how and when to commit resources to expanding their business.  This is when additional training as well as the confidential impartial advice of a mentor can be invaluable.

The Stepping Up Program has two core components, 12 hours of workshops on current business growth issues as well as 12 hours one to one with a mentor.  The program is typically run over three to four months and has 15 participants.

The Stepping Up Program with its unique combination of formal workshops, one to one mentoring as well as peer support and networking offers long-lasting skills, business contacts and an opportunity to work on specific strategies to achieve stated business goals.

Eligibility Criteria

A client business must meet all of the following criteria to be accepted into the Stepping Up Program:

• NSW-based.
• Business owner has operated the business for at least two years.
• Able to provide financial accounts and reports for at least two financial years which show the business is profitable and has a positive balance of assets over liabilities.
• Has sales turnover of between $200,000 and $10 million per annum.
• Employs at least one staff member in addition to the owner.
• Able to identify a business goal or hurdle suitable to be addressed through the program.
• Is prepared to enter into an agreement with DSRD to progress the recommendations flowing from the Stepping Up Program.
• Is prepared to respond to DSRD monitoring and evaluation surveys each year for up to two years after the project has been completed and will co-operate with promotion opportunities for the Program following participation. 

Workshop Content

Each series of workshops is tailored to the individual needs of participants but traditionally covers some of the following topics:

• Strategic Planning
• Business Systems
• Profit Tuning
• Marketing
• Growth Through People
• Risk Management/Compliance
• Succession Planning

Each workshop is delivered by an experienced professional and provides an environment in which to strategically evaluate and plan your business growth.

One on One Mentoring

Each mentor is matched with a mentoree and gives 12 hours of their time throughout the mentor program. Mentors and mentorees are matched on skill sets and needs, rather than industry based. Our mentors are experienced business owners or experienced business managers who offer confidential advice and support and adhere to a strict code of confidentiality.  Meetings of Mentors and Mentorees are flexible and set to suit the individuals.

Benefits of the Program

Benefits are measured for each business on:

• Increased turnover
• Employment of staff
• Increased net profits
• Increased market share
• New product development
• Increase business networks and strategic alliances

Each participant's benefits will be monitored at the completion of the program, 6, 12 and 18 months after the program.

Cost

The program is subsidised by the NSW Dept. of State and Regional Development on a $1 for $1 basis.  The total cost for each participant is of $990 inclusive of GST.

Register Your Interest

To register your interest use our online form below. email maria@becsmallbiz.com.au or call 9545-5900.