Robert Issell from Priority Invest had been in Canberra for 8 years and had a client base right across Canberra, but knew very few in his own local business neighbourhood.
“There was no medium to meet; I would walk down the street passed strangers, not knowing anyone,” says Robert.
“I enquired around to see if there was a Chamber of Commerce or a group responsible for the area, and I couldn’t find one. So, I made up a survey that I could take around to the different businesses and collect information about who they are and what they do, and what concerns they had and whether having a Phillip Business Community was something they were interested in.
“They had issues and concerns, especially around the introduction of paid parking; the Government taking rates and not giving back; issues around marketing their businesses; and the changing landscape of doing business online.
“So, Phillip Business Community came into being and while it takes some time to get people to see the benefits of working together and being focused on improving our community, after 18 months we are really starting to see great engagement,” adds Robert.
On the first Tuesday of the month, the community holds a Phillip Connect networking event where businesses can come along, hear from guest speakers and connect with others to create new opportunities for one another. https://phillipconnectapril4th.eventbrite.com.au
For more information visit http://phillipbusiness.com.au/
About Lighthouse Business Innovation Centre
Lighthouse has a strong track record of supporting entrepreneurs, researchers and inventers on the path from concept to commercialisation. Since July 2008, Lighthouse has worked with over 990 distinct enterprises and provided group and peer based services to over 3400 enterprises and individuals. For over five years Lighthouse has successfully delivered business advice, education, mentorship and networking opportunities to help these businesses commercialise their ideas and grow their companies. Lighthouse also delivers programs such as the ACT Microcredit Program for the ACT Government. Visit www.lighthouseinnovation.com.au for more information.
