Call for Local Experts: Expressions of Interest Open for 2026 Small Business Festival

Local business experts, educators and industry leaders are invited to play a key role in shaping the 2026 Small Business Festival, with Expressions of Interest now open to host events and activities across the Mornington Peninsula this August. 

Delivered by the Shire’s Economic and Cultural Development unit, the Small Business Festival is a flagship program designed to strengthen the skills, knowledge and resilience of the local business community. Each year the festival brings together business owners, entrepreneurs and professionals to learn practical tools, gain fresh insights and connect with peers. 

Planning is now underway for the August 2026 festival, and the Shire is seeking partnerships with experienced local providers who are passionate about sharing their expertise and supporting business growth. 

Showcase Your Expertise 

Industry experts, topic specialists and business educators are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest to deliver a workshop, seminar, panel discussion or interactive activity as part of the festival program. 

Based on feedback from local businesses, priority will be given to events that address practical, high‑impact topics such as: 

• Marketing and Branding – including digital marketing, social media, SEO, advertising and website development 

• Technology and Automation – AI, software solutions and tools to improve efficiency 

• Business Basics – starting a business, business planning, strategic decision‑making and time management 

• Financial Management – cash flow, budgeting, bookkeeping and tax essentials 

• Sustainability and Circular Economy – waste reduction and sustainable business practices 

• Team Management – recruitment, retention, inclusion, performance management and legal responsibilities 

• Business Resilience – preparing for and managing disruption, cyber security and supply chain challenges 

• Export Readiness – preparing for domestic and international markets 

• Sales and Customer Service – lead generation, sales techniques, accessibility and customer retention 

Applicants with innovative or niche topics are also encouraged to apply, with all proposals considered as part of designing a balanced and diverse program. 

What We’re Looking For 

To ensure the festival delivers high‑quality, relevant learning opportunities, proposed events must: 

• Be delivered by experienced and knowledgeable presenters 

• Take place during August 2026 within the Mornington Peninsula Shire 

• Offer clear value and tangible learning outcomes for attendees 

• Be open to the wider business community (not restricted to members only) 

• Be accessible and inclusive 

• Be suitable for free, low‑cost or ticketed delivery 

• Include a commitment from the host to promote both their event and the broader festival 

Preference will be given to applicants with confirmed events and content ready for publication, and to organisations registered within the Mornington Peninsula Shire that have been operating for a minimum of five years and have prior experience delivering industry development events. 

Get Involved 

Successful applicants will also contribute to the festival’s lasting impact by providing digital resources for MPBusiness.com.au and sharing key event data such as attendance numbers and feedback for reporting purposes. 

As part of the selection process, applicants may be invited to present their proposal to the Business and Industry Support team or provide additional supporting information. 

Expressions of Interest close at 5pm on Friday 27 February 2026. 

Click here to submit an EOI