Business networks and groups

Maitland has a number of business networks that celebrate and support local businesses and sole traders.  Additionally there are a number of not for profits and government agencies that businesses can rely on for advice, referrals and support.
Maitland Business Chamber

Maitland Business Chamber is the peak industry network in Maitland, which has over 200 members.

Membership is a great way to support the area's business community while also having access to entry level, free Business Australia and Hunter Business Chamber products and services.

Hunter Region Business Hub

Hunter Region Business Hub provides sound business advice for anyone involved in small business.  Whether you are starting out, growing, or have extensive experience, Hunter Region Business Hub can provide support.  

The Business Centre - Newcastle

The Business Centre in Newcastle aims to encourage all individuals to explore and develop their business ideas through face to face delivery of support from a qualified, accomplished and genuine team of Business Advisors, Trainers, Mentors and Board of Directors.

New Hunter Business

New Hunter Business is contracted by The Australian Government Department of Jobs and Small Business to oversee the delivery of the New Enterprise Incentive Scheme and Explore Being My Own Boss workshop.

New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) is a fully funded training program aimed at giving people the skills and confidence to run their own business. Seven weeks of hands on training for your business is supported by a year of ongoing business mentoring to help keep you on track. Eligible participants may qualify for the NEIS allowance as well as rental assistance through the program.

Explore Being My Own Boss is for anyone considering starting a business but not sure how to do it, or whether your idea has “legs”, then this program is a must. You will work through all facets of running a business, test out your idea, work on your brand and get a feel for being your own boss.

New Hunter Business is a not for profit organisation in partnership with The Business Centre and Hunter Region Business Hub.

Useful links for trade, exports and funding

Australian Trade and Investment Commission (AusTrade) helps and assists Australian companies and supports business to export products and services.

Australian Business Licence and Information Service (ABLIS) helps to identify relevant government licences, permits, approvals, regulations and codes of practice needed to meet compliance obligations.

Australian Industry and Defence Network (AIDN) is the peak industry association for small to medium enterprises (SMEs) wishing to do business in the defence and security sectors.

business.gov.au offers simple and convenient access to all the government information, forms and services needed to plan, start and grow a business.

Export Council of Australia (EAC) provides grant services, networking, support, awards and recognition, trade policy, exporter advocacy.

Grant Finder helps to find grants and assistance to start, run and grow a business.

NSW Department of Industry creates conditions for the NSW community to prosper, particularly through increased investment and competition.

NSW Small Business Commissioner provides high quality business advice, help and services to small business.

Regional Development Australia (RDA) Hunter is a leading economic development agency working to deliver Federal and State Government policies and programs for the benefit of the region. 

TradeStart is an extension of AusTrade, its prime objective is to assist small and medium sized exporters to achieve long term success in international markets.