How to guides and support for businesses

Setting up a new business is an exciting and challenging time with many things to consider such as budgets, staffing, branding, operations and marketing.  It's important to think about the big picture and how you would like to grow into the future.

Below you'll find a range of resources, tools and information available to support all types of local businesses.

    Why start a business in Manningham?

    With more than 30 local centres, nine neighbourhood activity centres, one major activity centre and one principal activity centre – the retail sector employs over 5,500 people and generates over $680 million to the local economy each year in Manningham;

    Tourism employs 1,700 people and generates over $315 million to the local economy each year.

    Home based business account for around 80 per cent of all businesses in Manningham contributing to the economic, social and environmental sustainability of the municipality.

    We have a Gross Region Product of $4.89 Billion, this is the total value of final goods and services produced in the region over the period of one year (2020).

    photograph of woman looking products on the shelf

    We are here to help!

    The Manningham Business Team are here to assist you with resources, networking events and various training programs throughout the year. 

      Business essentials

      Find out about tax regulations for your business.

      One on one help with your business

      Find out more about running a business with overseas markets.

      Essential information, training, tools and templates to help you develop the skills you need to start, run or grow a successful business.

      National information, grants, services and support from across government to help your business succeed.

       Search a comprehensive list of grant and funding opportunities.

      Learn the difference between a business and a hobby.

      Government-subsidised 1:1 mentoring, workshops, and courses for all your digital needs.

      Mental health and business wellbeing support for sole traders, small businesses and employees.

      An Australian Business Number is a number that identifies your business. You will need an for tax and other business activities. 

      Having a plan after an emergency can help get your business up and running as soon as possible.

      The VSBC offer low-cost dispute resolution services, including mediation, and championing the rights of small businesses. 

      Learn about the key elements of a sole trader and superannuation options.

      Your local business network aims to provide members with support, shared experiences, resources and new ideas.

      Setting up your business is an important first step. Find out more.

      Small business florist on laptop

      When do you need a permit for your business?

      Have a new business idea? Find out when you need a permit and where you can get advice.

      Senior woman volunteering

      Looking for volunteers?

      Eastern Volunteers delivers services directly to the community and encourages and supports volunteering in the community.

      Local business associations, networks and mentoring

      There are a range of local associations that encourage networking and mentoring opportunities for small businesses as well as annual events and training.

      The Manningham Business Network Inc. (MBN) is your local business network. They provide members with support, shared experiences, resources and new idea.

      Connecting Manningham is a community initiative by local residents and helps connect local business and residents. This initiative is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Templestowe and Rotaract Manningham.

      Mainstreet Australia provides a collaborative force and voice for traditional retail strips or main streets.

      The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Victorian Chamber) is the largest not-for-profit business organisation in Victoria.