A celebrity-laden fashion brand, an indoor karting track and a marine navigation equipment manufacturer are among the 10 small to medium businesses selected for next year’s ANZ Business Growth Program.
It’s a nine-month intensive program developed by University of South Australia Centre of Business Growth director Jana Matthews, designed to impart the skills needed for a sustainable financial future.
Open to management teams of ANZ business customers with less than 200 employees and more than $5 million in annual sales, last year’s 10 graduates created 114 jobs and achieved an aggregate 24 percent increase in revenue, taking earnings from $132m to $164m.
“Accelerating growth in a competitive marketplace is a challenge for any executive, especially those running SMEs who spend much of their time working in the business, rather than on the business,” Matthews said.
“The ANZ Business Growth Program gives CEOs the tools, knowledge and skills to identify barriers holding them back and strategies to help them grow.”
Companies selected for 2016 are:
- Fashion label and celebrity favourite Ellery Australia
- Australian dance fashion brand Energetiks
- Online skincare, haircare and cosmetics store, Ry.com.au
- Comfresh, a South Australian Supplier of fresh produce
- Marine navigation aid manufacturer Sealite
- Indoor karting track Hi Voltage Karts
- Hospitality services company The Publican Group
- Reliance GP Super Clinics
- Environmental consulting firm, Pacific Environment
- Bathroom supply business Canterbury Sink and Tap
ANZ General Manager Business Banking Tania Motton said the bank was keen to give small business an extra push.
“Our role is more than providing finance or banking services, we play an important part in helping businesses develop and grow, this includes supporting their entry into offshore markets and better understanding their customers’ current and future needs,” she said.
“Since the program started, 30 per cent of businesses have opened up offices in new countries and 40 per cent are now selling their products and services in nine new countries.”