The Hunter Region Business Hub has entered into a corporate sponsorship partnership with local customer-owned financial institution The Mutual Bank to expand mentoring, educational workshops, business advocacy, and networking resources for small business owners across the Hunter region. The initiative will scale support services for startups and established commercial operations across Newcastle, Port Stephens, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Cessnock, Dungog, Singleton, Muswellbrook and the Upper Hunter.
Operating since 1992, the community-based non-profit business advisory hub welcomes over 25,000 visitors annually to its Kurri Kurri headquarters, which houses 33 affordable office and light industrial units for regional enterprises. Demand for local commercial footprint remains high, with 17 businesses currently on the waiting list for tenancy at the Kurri Kurri facility.
The small business announcement follows The Mutual Bank’s recent physical branch expansion in the Hunter, following the opening of its new customer service branch at 93 Vincent Street in Cessnock.
Acting Chair of the Hunter Region Business Hub, Shane Meister stated that practical business support delivers broader economic benefits across local supply chains.
“When a local business gets the right advice and support, the whole region benefits through more jobs, stronger businesses and stronger communities,” Shane said.
“The Mutual Bank’s support will help us reach more businesses with practical advice, mentoring, connections and advocacy when they need it. Together, we can remove barriers, open doors and give more local enterprises the opportunity to succeed here in our region.”
General Manager of the Hunter Region Business Hub, Alena Pople added that corporate backing enhances long-term service delivery for member businesses.
“For almost 35 years, the Hunter Region Business Hub has been a trusted source of practical business advice, mentoring, education and support for businesses across our region,” Alena said.
“We are incredibly proud of the role the Hub has played in helping local enterprises start, grow, overcome challenges and build lasting connections. This sponsorship honours that strong legacy while giving us greater capacity to enhance our services, create more opportunities and deliver even greater value to our Members now and into the future.”
Chief Executive Officer of The Mutual Bank, Mark Williams noted that backing local business advisors strengthens the broader regional economy.
“The Hunter’s strength has always come from local people backing local ideas. By supporting the Hub, we are helping more business owners access the guidance, networks and opportunities they need to build something lasting and contribute to a stronger regional economy,” Mark said.
IMAGE | Hunter Region Business Hub partners with The Mutual Bank to support regional small businesses
