Small Business Financial Survival Seminars

Small businesses will have access to vital funding advice and strategies to recession-proof their businesses for a mere $45 at the May Money Expo – Small Business Financial Survival Seminar, to be held in Melbourne, Tuesday 26 May, and Sydney, Thursday 28 May, hosted by not-for-profit group, the Finance & Treasury Association.

The expo will bring together some of Australia’s leading business experts who will offer timely advice as the Federal Budget confirms that the tough times will continue for at least another two years.

According to Judy Hartcher, CEO of the Finance & Treasury Association which assists professionals working across all aspects of treasury and financial risk management, knowing how to put the best case forward for funding or where to find alternative sources of capital will be critical to surviving in these recessionary times.

“In the current climate, funding will get tighter and tighter as you go down the business food chain. Big businesses are able to plan for their finance requirements up to three years out and small business may be crowded out of the market,” Ms Hartcher said.

“The harsh reality is some small businesses will not survive the economic downturn. However, with the right advice and planning now, small businesses will be in a much better position to weather the storm,” Ms Hartcher said.

The expo will feature industry experts from Scottish Pacific Benchmark, Smart Company, Dunn & Bradstreet, Corporate Treasury Consulting and Sensis. The 16 information sessions as part of the expo will cover topics such as marketing, managing your employment costs, cash flow and trade finance, how to approach angel investors, tips for pitching for business, getting help from government and finding extra cash within a business.

Jan Barned, author of the “Financial Survival Guide for Small Business”, a joint initiative of CPA Australia and Small Business Victoria, who will run a session on working capital management strategies, said: “Most businesses have cash that is ‘tied’ up in the trading operations of their business. This cash can be unlocked and used to support the business, reducing reliance on external borrowings.”

In her session, Ms Barned will offer some of the key tips and tricks for avoiding a cashflow crisis, such as not holding too much stock, collecting cash from their customers in good time and negotiating favourable terms of trade with suppliers.

The May Money Expos are supported by NSW Department of State and Regional Development and the Victorian Government’s Small Business Victoria, as well as CPA Australia.

GET IN QUICK – REGISTRATIONS STILL AVAILABLE

WHERE & WHEN:
Melbourne Convention Centre, Southbank, Tuesday 26 May
Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour – Thursday 28 May

HOW TO REGISTER:
www.finance-treasury.com or ph: 03 9616 0200

COST: $45