Karen Corr, director of Make a Change Australia, is the first face viewers see on a string of posters for Small Business Festival Victoria which kicked runs in Bendigo throughout August. 

Greater Bendigo City Council Mayor Cr Peter Cox said the Bendigo Small Business Festival is a good opportunity for local businesses to gain some great information and take their business to the next level.

"In Greater Bendigo we are showcasing 27 informative events which should interest small business owners, managers, staff and anyone considering starting or growing a small business.

"The City of Greater Bendigo's Economic Development and Tourism units are proud to present four of these key events including a 21st Century Retail Trilogy of essential workshops on August10 and 11 featuring  presentations from Russell Zimmerman Executive Director of the Australian Retailers Association and James Roper Director Australian Retailers Association.

"Other sessions presented by the City include a `What makes Bendigo retail customers tick' on Tuesday August 4, `How to get and keep great customers' on Thursday August 6 and the `Six steps to grow your business' seminar on Thursday August 27.

"The Bendigo Small Business Festival is packed with creative presentations from experienced local and visiting experts.

"It's also an opportunity for businesses to interact with other like-minded business owners, business experts from industry associations and federal, state and local government," said Cr Cox.

Other events taking place in Bendigo will cover a range of topics including online marketing, retail advice, juggling work/life balance, social media and networking.

A full program of events is available from the City of Greater Bendigo’s Lyttleton Terrace Office or can be viewed online via the Business Victoria website.