Two free business workshops will be open to businesses in the Macedon Ranges Shire in September and October, helping small businesses prepare for the future.

Hosted by Macedon Ranges Shire Council in partnership with Business Victoria, the workshops are designed to help business owners assess their current situation and provide them with skills to strengthen their business.

The two workshops will also help small businesses recover from the pressures of the COVID pandemic and the rising cost of living.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council planning and environment director Rebecca Stockfeld said the workshops provided an opportunity for business owners to learn something new to help them grow.

“We know businesses have been doing it tough and we want to provide support wherever we can to assist our local business owners to get back on their feet,” she said.

“These workshops will also provide a great opportunity to network with other local businesses in the area and share ideas.”

From 9.30am to 11.30am on Wednesday, the Micro Businesses Health Check will help clarify the role of specific businesses and provide information on how to undertake regular self-assessments.

Topics covered include being clear on the role of the business, making small changes for large effect, understanding the value of purpose, identifying issues early, and reaffirming strengths and skills with a focus on improvements that align with business goals.

The Strengthening Business Practices workshop, from 9.30am to 12.30pm on October 5, aims to provide constructive business recovery advice and tools for short and long-term crisis planning.

Topics covered include risk awareness and prevention, how to best respond to emergencies and crises, and personal and business resilience.

Both workshops will be at the Gisborne Administration Centre, located at 40 Robertson Street.

Bookings are required for both workshops. For more information or to register, people can call 5421 9654 or visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/business-events.