26 June 2014

Support for Manus small businesses

Australia will provide free business workshops in Manus to help more people to access benefits from the Regional Processing Centre.

Australia’s High Commissioner to PNG, Ms Deborah Stokes, said Manusian businesses are benefiting from the centre and there are more opportunities to access contracts and business ventures.

“That is why we have initiated a new business workshop series to develop the capacity of local small businesses and people to participate in economic opportunities,” Ms Stokes said.

“The workshops are for everyone who is interested in starting or improving a small business.

“Manusian women are talented and have amazing skills including handicrafts and gardening. I encourage women as well as men to attend and learn how they can turn their abilities and ideas into business ventures.”

The Regional Processing Centre is purchasing on average goods and services, such as food, valued at more than PGK2 million each week.

Work is underway to expand and upgrade the Lombrum centre and to construct accommodation at East Lorengau. Information about economic opportunities including sub-contract and supplier packages is available online at www.png.embassy.gov.au/pmsb/media.html

The small business workshops will develop skills including marketing, investigating business opportunities, goal setting, developing a business plan and financial management tools and techniques.

PNG’s Institute of Banking and Business Management will provide the initial workshops on July 15 and 16 at the Manus Textile Hall. For further information about the workshops call phone 7309 0594.