StartUp Smart

About the event

The City of Mandurah, in partnership with IPS Management Consultants, is excited to offer the StartUp Smart program, a free 8-week course designed for aspiring entrepreneurs in Mandurah. This program is tailored to help you turn your business idea into a reality by providing you with the tools, resources, and knowledge needed to launch and grow your business successfully.
The StartUp Smart program is ideal for those who are looking to start their own business or have recently started and want to gain the skills needed to establish a strong foundation. Whether you're unsure where to begin or need help refining your business strategy, this course will guide you every step of the way.

What you'll learn: 
Over the 8-week program, participants will gain in-depth knowledge and practical skills in various aspects of business development. Key topics include:

• Business validation: Learn how to test and validate your business idea, ensuring it meets market needs and has the potential for success.
• Business planning: Understand how to create a business plan that serves as a roadmap for your success, covering everything from operations to financial planning.
• Branding and marketing: Develop your business’s branding strategy and learn marketing techniques that will help you reach your target audience effectively.
• Financial planning: Gain a solid understanding of business finances, including pricing strategies, budgeting, and understanding cash flow.
• Customer research: Learn how to identify and engage your target market, building lasting relationships with your customers.
• Setting goals and measuring progress: Learn how to set actionable business goals, track your progress, and adjust strategies for continued growth.
• One-on-one business support: In addition to the group workshops, participants will receive one-on-one business advisory sessions during and after the program. These personalised sessions are designed to help you address any unique challenges, refine your business plan, and ensure your business is set up for success.

Program details:
Start date: Tuesday, 21 July 2026
End date: Tuesday, 8 September 2026
Time: Every Tuesday from 9.30am to 1.00pm
Location: Dawesville Community Centre, Meeting Room, 4 Woodstock Avenue, Dawesville 
Cost: Free 
Eligibility: Exclusively available for residents of the City of Mandurah

The StartUp Smart program is designed to help you launch your business with confidence. This course will equip you with essential business skills, from understanding the core aspects of running a business to refining your marketing strategies and financial planning. By participating, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and build a business that lasts.

The City of Mandurah is committed to supporting local entrepreneurs and boosting the local economy by providing access to resources, training, and personalised guidance that help businesses thrive and succeed.

Applications close at 5pm, Friday 3 July 2026. Bookings are essential.