Keeping good company
by Vincent Ciccarello
Small and medium-sized enterprises [SMEs] can turn to UniSA for advice on how to improve their business.
From a field of 75 applicants nationally, the University of South Australia has been named one of only 10 partner organisations in a new Federal Government 10-year, $350 million program to support and advise SMEs.
Through the newly formed Australian Industry Productivity Centres, 45 business advisers will offer SMEs in the manufacturing and services sectors with a turnover of $2 million or more a free diagnostic service to identify ways those businesses can improve their performance.
From October 1, UniSA – the only university other than the University of Western Sydney to be selected - will be home to one of those business advisers, thanks to the funding agreement which has a potential value of $2 million over 10 years.
Operations and Business Development Manager at UniSA’s Centre for Advanced Manufacturing Research (CAMR), Evangelos Lambrinos said the agreement was a coup for the University.
"It is recognition of the University’s engagement with the manufacturing industry and CAMR’s track record," he said.
"The Department of Industry certainly was impressed by the strength of the joint CAMR and Defence and Systems Institute submission."
In the highly competitive global business climate, Lambrinos said it was critical for SMEs to be more productive and efficient.
"SMEs are resource strapped and time poor. This initiative will give them access to a free diagnosis of their business and gives them the incentive to go to that next level by improving productivity."
He said the business adviser will provide the business with a report detailing potential areas of improvement and expert contacts to help execute suggested changes.
"Those businesses can then apply for a $20,000 Tailored Program grant to engage specialist consultants to facilitate change."
More information about the Australian Industry Productivity Centres and how businesses can take part in the scheme will be available in coming months.