GREATER Shepparton City Council concluded its inaugural 2026 Greater Shepparton Business Mentor Program on Thursday, July 2, at the Aussie Hotel in Shepparton.
The program ran from May to July 2026, bringing together new and emerging local businesses with experienced mentors for practical one-on-one guidance, honest conversations and support tailored to their business goals.
Mentors and mentees reflected on the value of sharing local knowledge, building stronger connections and working through real business challenges together.
Each mentee was matched with an experienced local mentor for two structured mentoring sessions across the May to July period.
Business Mentor Program mentee Bronwyn Watts from Born Maternity Clothing said the program delivered practical improvements she could put into action straight away.
“I had some quick wins that I could implement immediately, and I started seeing the benefits almost straight after my sessions with my mentor. They helped me strengthen my digital marketing, resolve technical issues and explore ways to use AI in my business,” said Bronwyn.
“I am now more consistent with email marketing and paid advertising, and our sales have increased based on the advice I received through the program.
“The best part is that my mentor has offered to stay in touch, so I now have a trusted contact I can reach out to. The biggest lesson I will take away is consistency. Keep showing up and keep doing the work.”
Greater Shepparton Business Mentor Program, mentor Debbie McColl from All Farm Gates said she joined the program to help local businesses work through challenges and achieve their goals.
“Running a business can be challenging and it is valuable to have someone to share ideas with and talk through different aspects of the business,” said Debbie.
“Sometimes we get caught up working in the business rather than on the business. This program gives people the opportunity to step back, look at the bigger picture and learn what they can do to move forward.”
For further information, please contact Council’s Economic Development Engagement Coordinator on 5832 9700 or email council@shepparton.vic.gov.au
