To promote the interests of the business community in Somerset Region.

The Somerset Regional Business Alliance aims to create a better business environment in the Somerset Region by providing an effective forum for all local businesses to network with each other, by promoting the interests of the business community to government and policy makers, and by facilitating communication with the wider community about the range of products and services available from local businesses.

Activities

• Compile and maintain an easily accessible, online list of businesses operating in the Somerset Region for the benefit of customers and businesses alike.
• Disseminate news and information about developments and opportunities relevant to local business.
• Organise events designed to stimulate business innovation and growth, and to facilitate communication between all members of our business community.
• In partnership with the Opportune Network and other training organisations, to organise and promote local training events that will assist local businesses to attain high standards of excellence.
• Enable the local business community to contribute positively to the Somerset Region community and the local environment.
• Promote the economic and social benefits of ‘Buying Local’.
• Campaign for improved telecommunications and Internet services throughout Somerset Region that are critical as an engine of economic growth.

The work of the SRBA during 2011

1. During the 2011 Floods, when all other communication systems operated by the authorities had failed, the SRBA used our Internet resources to establish an information network that proved a lifeline for many people in the community.
2. The SRBA made substantial submissions to the Qld Flood Commission about the effects of the floods on the business community in Somerset Region.
3. The SRBA made a successful application for a $100,000 Federal Government Small Business Advisory Service Grant to assist flood affected businesses throughout the Somerset Region with access to mentoring and training to help them get their business back on track.
4. The SRBA liaises regularly with the Somerset Region Council, with whom we have been able to raise the profile local business in a number of areas. We will shortly be meeting with the SRC to discuss how local businesses can do more business with them.
5. The SRBA president, Bob Whalley, represents the SRBA on the Somerset Region Flood Economic Recovery committee.
6. The SRBA organised a ‘Sponsor a Laptop’ appeal that donated 14 laptops to flood affected residents in Somerset Region who have had their insurance claims refused.
7. The SRBA vigorously promotes a ‘Buy Local’ campaign through articles and press releases in local papers that service the Somerset Region.
8. The SRBA organises regular events for members, including networking opportunities and presentations by key business mentors.
9. The SRBA provides the only online Directory of local businesses in Somerset Region – this is currently under further development and will soon list all local businesses based on information provided in the Survey.
10. In partnership with the Opportune Business Network, the Somerset Region Business Alliance is organising the Somerset EXPO on 4th, 5th and 6th November to showcase local businesses and show the world we are very much open for business since the floods. We are also organising a free SMART Exhibiting seminar to enable local businesses to make the best use of the EXPO.