Helping small businesses thrive with digital skills

As digital technologies continue to evolve, many business owners are looking to build skills in areas such as AI, digital marketing and cybersecurity. But they don't always know where to start.

The Digital Solutions Program is here to help. Small businesses across Australia can access free digital training and expert one-on-one coaching to build skills in AI, digital marketing, cybersecurity and more. 

Small businesses can access:

• up to 5 hours of one-on-one digital coaching from a qualified business adviser (for a small fee)
• free workshops, webinars and self-directed tutorials covering:
  
  • introduction to digitalising your small business
  • social media, digital marketing and selling online
  • using business software
  • AI and emerging technologies
  • cybersecurity and data privacy.

The numbers tell a compelling story. More than 17,000 small businesses have accessed the Digital Solutions Program, receiving over 37,000 hours of coaching and participating in more than 1,100 webinars.

Using AI to strengthen customer engagement

Khirullaah Walid Odda, owner of Illawarra in Colour Painting, accessed the program to improve his digital marketing capabilities. Through mentoring, he explored how AI tools could support content creation and customer engagement, helping him build confidence in using new technologies within his business.

Building stronger digital foundations

Pete Raine, owner of Victorian micro-brewpub Barbarian Brewing Co, joined the program looking for support with digital marketing tools and systems. After completing the program, his business recorded its strongest month to date.

"Having an external perspective on your digital systems is incredibly powerful," he said. "Take it seriously and apply what you learn immediately."

Turning digital skills into growth

Shirley Wu, founder of Shirley Wu Jewellery, used one-on-one mentoring and workshops to refine her marketing strategy and improve her advertising approach. She launched a new website and implemented a weekly social media schedule, resulting in a significant increase in views, engagement and workshop bookings.

The program is open to small businesses with fewer than 20 full-time equivalent employees, as well as sole traders. Services are available across metropolitan and regional Australia.

Whether you're completely new to digital or looking to build skills in areas like AI, the program offers practical, fit-for-purpose support that you can apply in your business straight away.

To get started, visit: www.business.gov.au/digitalsolutions