Image: MP Nadia Clancy at Flourish Gift and Home
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South Australia’s Small Business Week has recorded its biggest year yet, with almost 1,500 businesses taking part in workshops, events and networking opportunities across the state.
Held from August 17 to 21, Small Business Week 2026 attracted 1,482 registrations across around 40 metropolitan, regional and online events, a six per cent increase on last year.
Business owners were given access to more than 70 hours of professional development, covering some of the biggest issues facing businesses today, from artificial intelligence and raising capital to employing staff, exporting, succession planning and attracting new customers.
More than 80 organisations were involved in delivering the week’s program, with several events selling out and attracting waiting lists.
Among the major events was the Small Business Expo at the Adelaide Convention Centre, alongside the Resilient and Ready Women in Business Breakfast.
The Meet the Buyer event also gave small businesses the chance to speak directly with major purchasers and learn more about procurement and supply chain opportunities.
Small and Family Business Minister Nadia Clancy said the response showed business owners were looking for practical support they could put into action.
“Nearly 1,500 registrations, sold-out events and a program offering more than 70 hours of professional development show owners value practical ideas and connections to help strengthen their businesses and prepare for change,” Minister Clancy said.
Now in its sixth year, Small Business Week forms part of the State Government’s $25.2 million South Australian Small Business Strategy.
The strategy is aimed at helping South Australia’s more than 164,000 small businesses build capability, develop their workforce and prepare for future growth.
The focus on local businesses is continuing throughout September, with Support Small September now underway.
As part of the campaign, Minister Clancy is visiting 30 small businesses over 30 days to meet owners in their workplaces and highlight the people, products and services operating across South Australia.
“Support Small September builds on that momentum, taking me into 30 businesses over 30 days to hear directly from owners and showcase the people, products and services behind South Australia’s growing small business sector,” she said.
