Fifteen small businesses selected for digital makeover

The first 15 businesses, out of a total of 100, have been selected to undergo a digital transformation under a new Australian government initiative, Digital Champions. 

"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 the minister for small and family business, Senator Michaelia Cash.

Each Digital Champion will be paired with a Digital Mentor who is a high-profile business leader and has leveraged technology for their business' success. These innovators will provide personalised mentoring and guide the Digital Champions on their digital transformation journey.

"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," Ms Cash said. 

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," Ms Cash added.