Nine small businesses in Alexandrina will share $20,000 in Council Business Initiative Grants to facilitate projects including website improvements and initiatives to encourage tourism and build awareness of local produce.

The funds were allocated in one competitive round as part of Alexandrina Council’s 2024/25 Grants Program and were approved by the council at its May general meeting.

“It’s encouraging to see Council’s Business Initiative Grants making such a positive impact on small businesses in the region. I’m looking forward to seeing the outcomes and how these businesses progress,” says Alexandrina Mayor Keith Parkes.

“Working with businesses and industries is crucial as it contributes to the prosperity of the region and aligns with Council’s vision to make our region more liveable, green and connected.

“We hope that by funding these projects, it helps to put these small businesses on the map and attract more visitation and growth in Alexandrina.

“Since Council is no longer accepting applications for the 2024/25 Grants Program, we encourage community groups, small businesses and individuals to be on the lookout for the opening of the 2025/26 Grant Program and to get involved to ensure projects happen in your community.”

Applications for the Business Initiative Grants opened on Monday 10 February and closed on Monday 17 March.

The successful 2024/25 Business Initiative Grant recipients were:

• Bleasdale Vineyards $2,500 for Bleasdale 1892 Cellar Museum Renovations Documentation and Plans.

• Debbie Constable $1,950 towards Fundamentals of Business & Leadership - Social Media Strategy.

• Strathalbyn Tourism Association $2,500 for developing a portfolio of images.

• The Huzzah Democracy Pty Ltd $1,500 towards website Improvement Project.

• Slow Mover Coffee $2,500 for Slow Mover - Digital Upgrade.

• Peninsula Providore Farm Pty Ltd $2,500 towards showcasing Local Flavour: Elevating Peninsula Providore’s Digital Presence Through Recipe Creation & Professional Photography.

• Woodburn Homestead $2,300 for Woodburn 'Winter Series': Winter Staycation Project.

• Hays St $2,000 for Marketing Enhancement for Hays St Bar & Kitchen.

• Fleurieu Locksmith $2,250 for Enhancing Fleurieu Locksmiths Digital Presence for Business Growth.

More information on the  2025/26 Grants Program will be available soon. For further details about the grant program and the selected applications, visit the website.

Alexandrina Council offers a range of business support facilities, including access to meeting rooms, hot desks and expert-led training programs. It provides mentoring, workshops and networking opportunities to help business owners thrive. For further details contact [email protected] or visit the Business Hub at 12 Cadell Street, Goolwa.