Business makeover 101

A TCF small business grant can be the key to boosting a business to new heights. Here, grant consultant Stuart Smith reveals how to bag one before applications close on February 28, 2014.

Applications for Round 9 of the Small Business TCF Grant close on February 28, 2014 and a grant consultant like Vebiz can help you maximise the value of the grant you receive and have your application ready in time.

The TCF Small Business Grant has created some remarkable benefits for business.

Over the last eight years we have found some great products and providers that can make your TCF business eligible for the grant. They understand the industry and work in a team with Vebiz to help you maximise the value of the grant.

Keep in mind that Ausindustry must see your project as a “Business Culture Change”. This grant is not about just doing the same thing, only better. All that would mean is that you would be able to work six days a week instead of seven. The projects have to be about bringing a fundamental change to your business - you must change your production, operational activities, management, sales or marketing model.

To date; TCF Small Business Program grants have benefited 548 businesses and supported projects to transform business operations. Projects have included:

·       business strategy and mentoring,

·       marketing and branding,

·       manufacturing process upgrades,

·       e-commerce and

·       export opportunity development.

Vebiz works with each applicant to make sure the project will create new opportunities for the business and have the best chance of getting funding. Some case studies of our clients have shown the benefits of the projects that they have run over the years. There are many types of projects that have received funding, but in the main, we have noticed three ways to modernize your business and gain the grant…

1. Consider CAD pattern making equipment

This technology creates productivity gains that free up time for TCF owners to develop new markets and products. Styelcad is one example. This system was installed at Sally Phillips Collections in Adelaide and they have not looked back since. Sally has two collections a year where samples for all styles and all sizes need to be produced prior to production, not just one single size. A huge job. Stylecad created significant timesavings and has helped the business grow from sole owner operator to seven staff over two years.

2. Install an Enterprise Management System.

Enterprise Management Systems (EMS) integrates customers, sales, ordering, suppliers, production and distribution into one computer package.

Valerie Travers is a respected and long standing business in Adelaide who replaced old manual systems and a combination of three separate computing systems with the integrated web based package from Indigo-8. This has improved their productivity by 50 per cent, improved their cost structures and allowed them to secure much larger customers.

Sydney-based fashion house Nookie received a TCF grant to implement the Indigo8 Solutions, Clearstream EMS to help them manage their growing online business and advanced distribution network.

Niche Garments is another long time supplier of computer systems in the fashion industry that Vebiz have worked with. They have allowed TCF companies like White Suede, High Tea with Mrs. Woo to enter new markets and gracefully adapt to much higher production volumes by giving them access to tools that organise the complex aspects of their business.

3. Hire a Consultant

This is the other way you can transform your business and gain a grant. The right advice at the right time can make all the difference. Consultants can also help clarify your existing market and your approach to them, or find new markets and different demographics. They can suggest changing product types or start developing export plans.

Stuart Smith is a grant consultant at Vebiz Grants. www.Vebiz.com.au. You can contact Stuart on 0419 014 323 or consult@vebiz.com.au. Vebiz operate in all states of Australia.