By CASEY NEILL
FIVE Greater Dandenong businesses have received a leg-up towards their dreams.
City of Greater Dandenong last Wednesday, 25 March, announced five recipients for its Business Grants Program which was launched last year.
Four were from Dandenong South – timber window manufacturer 363 Enterprises, electronic waste recycling business Quantum Recycling Solutions, fire protection equipment manufacturer and servicer Ruson Fire Division of Power Industries Australia, and Russian-style dumpling manufacturer From Granny.
Dandy Naan and Kebab in Dandenong bakes Persian flat bread called Sangak and was also applauded at the Dandenong Civic Centre presentation.
Each business will be reimbursed for up to $8000 it spends and will receive about $2000 in advice from the Small Business Mentoring Service and marketing.
Bill Underwood from the council’s Economic Development Unit manages the grants program which is designed to encourage business growth, attract investment and generate jobs.
He said the recipients would develop financial and marketing plans, explore business growth opportunities and more to “get maximum advantage out of the cash”.
Bert Glinka and Brendan D’Amelio from inaugural business grant recipient Young Uncles Coffee and Sandwich Bar spoke at last week’s ceremony.
“The investment can give you that extra push to really make something out of what you believe and what you’re passionate about,” Mr Glinka said.
The brothers-in-law used their grant for a coffee machine and outdoor seating.
“It meant that we could produce the product that we believe in,” he said.
“We initially intended to double our coffee sales.
“When we first applied for the grant I think we were doing about 50 coffees a day. Now we’re pushing 150, sometimes 200 on a day.”
Mr Glinka said the marketing package, which included coverage in the Journal, lifted the cafe’s profile.
“We were getting some calls from suppliers congratulating us and a bit of social media activity,” he said.
“My tip is – know when it’s going to be published and be prepared for the extra onslaught of people.”
Young Uncles has employed two new staff thanks to business growth the grant generated.
“The mentoring side of it was really helpful as well,” Mr Glinka said.
“One of the main take outs for us was that we are well within our rights as business owners with future visions to focus on growing the business, and not necessarily doing the day to day activities.”
They learnt to put processes in place to keep their products true to their vision without their presence, and developed valuable relationships with Greater Dandenong’s business minds.
“I’m sure you’re here because you love what you’re doing. Don’t lose sight of that,” Mr Glinka told this year’s recipients.
“Hopefully, with this package it will enable you to do it better and bring in some extra money for you to keep reinvesting and growing your business.”
The Journal supports the grants program and will profile each of the successful businesses in the coming weeks.
