Partnership to strengthen Hunter small businesses

A new partnership between the Hunter Region Business Hub and The Mutual Bank will expand practical support for small businesses across the Hunter, including mentoring, education, networking and access to affordable premises.

The sponsorship will help the Hub reach more entrepreneurs and established businesses across Newcastle, Port Stephens and Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Cessnock, Dungog, Singleton, Muswellbrook and the Upper Hunter, strengthening business capability, confidence and resilience across the regional economy.

The community-based, not-for-profit Hub has supported Hunter businesses since 1992. More than 25,000 people visit its Kurri Kurri site each year, where 33 office and light industrial units provide an affordable base for local enterprises. A further 17 businesses are currently waiting for space.

The partnership will support more workshops, mentoring, networking and advocacy, while creating opportunities for financial wellbeing and small business initiatives shaped around local needs.

Hunter Region Business Hub Acting Chair Shane Meister said the partnership would deliver practical benefits beyond the businesses directly supported.

"When a local business gets the right advice and support, the whole region benefits through more jobs, stronger businesses and stronger communities," Mr Meister said.

"The Mutual Bank's support will help us reach more businesses with practical advice, mentoring, connections and advocacy when they need it. Together, we can remove barriers, open doors and give more local enterprises the opportunity to succeed here in our region."

Hunter Region Business Hub General Manager Alena Pople said the support would build on almost 35 years of practical service to the region's business community.

"For almost 35 years, the Hunter Region Business Hub has been a trusted source of practical business advice, mentoring, education and support for businesses across our region," Ms Pople said.

"We are incredibly proud of the role the Hub has played in helping local enterprises start, grow, overcome challenges and build lasting connections. This sponsorship honours that strong legacy while giving us greater capacity to enhance our services, create more opportunities and deliver even greater value to our Members now and into the future."

The Mutual Bank Chief Executive Officer Mark Williams said supporting the Hub was a practical way to invest in the people and businesses driving the Hunter's future.

"The Hunter's strength has always come from local people backing local ideas. By supporting the Hub, we are helping more business owners access the guidance, networks and opportunities they need to build something lasting and contribute to a stronger regional economy," Mr Williams said.

The announcement follows The Mutual Bank's opening of a new branch at 93 Vincent Street, Cessnock, extending its physical presence in the Hunter and building on relationships with local businesses and community organisations.