Suncorp : throws its full support behind 2016 Small Business Week

16 May 2016

Small businesses across Queensland this week have the opportunity to learn how to strengthen their resilience and navigate the changing landscape thanks to 2016 Queensland Small Business Week (16-21 May), hosted by the Queensland Government and sponsored by Suncorp.

The weeklong series of events and workshops will cover key themes to help businesses identify and take advantage of opportunities, including collaboration and partnership, innovation and entrepreneurship, and preparing for digital disruption.

Business owners will also be able to connect with industry leaders and likeminded operators to gain a fresh perspective and tangible insights to help them grow and flourish.

Suncorp's Head of Business Customers, John Debenham, said Suncorp was proud to strengthen its connections with Queensland's business community through its support of 2016 Small Business Week.

"Small and medium sized businesses are the backbone of Australia's economy and Suncorp is committed to supporting the growth, success and sustainability of this important sector," Mr Debenham said.

"As an organisation with a long and proud heritage right across Queensland, we see it as our job to help small businesses operate in the complex and rapidly changing environment we're all navigating and adapting to.

"We're focussed on creating value for our customers by helping businesses build resilience, invest and grow. With the strength and shared capability of the Suncorp Group, a focus on technology and innovation and strong customer and community connections right across the State, we're well positioned to do this.

"There are some exciting prospects for Queensland as the economy continues to transition and diversify, and small businesses are encouraged to draw upon their strengths to take full advantage of the opportunities.

"Initiatives like the 2016 Small Business Week are invaluable in helping Queensland businesses at all stages equip themselves to do just this and adapt to the changing environment."

Minister for Small Business, Leeanne Enoch, said it was encouraging to see the excitement and enthusiasm for this year's Small Business Week.

"This is a great opportunity for small business owners and operators to learn, network and connect with new ideas," Minister Enoch said.

"We have a great partner in Suncorp to ensure that the event makes an impact with regional businesses and I encourage people to register to attend the regional events that are a key part of the week.

"Our emphasis for the week is on creating opportunities from challenges, and on boosting innovation, productivity and employment, and people are responding positively to this."

As part of the series of events, Suncorp Bank will be hosting several 'Getting financially fit for change' workshops focussed on the Queensland economic outlook and challenges and opportunities for small businesses, including implications from the recent Budget, as well cash flow tips to help navigate the changing environment.

For more information or to register to attend an event at 2016 Queensland Small Business Week visit www.business.qld.gov.au/smallbusinessweek, email smallbusiness@dtesb.qld.gov.au, or follow Businessqldgov on Facebook and Twitter.

ENDS

Media Contact:

Amy McDonald 0403 058 462 | Emma Kissick 07 3135 2505

About Suncorp:

Suncorp Group includes leading general insurance, banking, life insurance and superannuation brands in Australia and New Zealand. The Group has 14,500 employees and relationships with nine million customers. Suncorp Group Limited is a Top 20 ASX- listed company with $94 billion in assets. Suncorp Bank is Australia's leading regional bank servicing more than one million personal, SME and agribusiness customers.