FIRST DIGITAL CHAMPIONS ANNOUNCED

The first businesses to undergo a digital transformation under a new Australian Government initiative were announced at an event today supported by some of the country’s most passionate business innovators. 

Minister for Small and Family Business, Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash, announced the first businesses selected out of a total of 100 to receive up to $20,000 in digital support as part of the Digital Champions initiative. 

“I applaud the enthusiasm and passion of the business owners who have stepped forward and embraced this opportunity to take their business to the next level of success,” said Minister Cash.

Out of the 100 businesses, 15 have been selected to be Digital Champions and are receiving additional support and guidance from high profile Digital Mentors.

“These Digital Champions will each have access to a personal mentor’s extraordinary wealth of knowledge — absolutely inspirational business leaders like, Michelle Bridges, Larry Kestelman and Dr Sam Prince, founder of Zambrero, to name just a few.”

 Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that only 50 per cent of Australian businesses have a web presence, with even less using software for accounting and invoicing. 

However, when small businesses are digitally engaged, they are 50 per cent more likely to be growing revenue, eight times more likely to be creating jobs, and 14 times more likely to be innovating new products or services.

“No longer is there a choice when it comes to digital engagement. If you want your business to succeed in today’s economy, you must use digital technologies,” Minister Cash said.

“Helping small businesses invest in their digital capability will help them reach their full potential and will strengthen the small business sector, creating more jobs and an even stronger economy for all Australians.

“It is my great pleasure to announce the first businesses to join the Digital Champions project and I wish them and all the Digital Champions every success on their transformational journey.”

For more information about the Digital Champions initiative please visit: digitalchampions.jobs.gov.au