Starting a business

Tap into support from the government and business services here in Canberra to help kick-start your business.

Canberra has the right environment for established businesses to grow, and for new and innovative companies to make a mark.

Businesses are connected and supportive. You can grow your networks quickly in Canberra and build enduring partnerships. Here, business collaborates locally to compete globally.

Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN)

With funding from the ACT Government, CBRIN delivers programs, workshops and services aimed at supporting start-ups and SMEs with high-growth potential.

CBRIN’s programs that can help you in the early days of setting up your business, include:

Griffin Accelerator
Validate your idea, develop networks and fine-tune your business model.
Cicada Innovations
Get access to infrastructure, mentors and investors, and programs for potential high-growth businesses.

Learn more about all of CBRIN’s programs.

Indigenous Business Australia (IBA)

IBA offers a business development program. It helps eligible Indigenous Australians set up, buy and grow small to medium businesses.

Learn more about IBA.

Business.gov.au

Business.gov.au is the Australian Government’s business advice website. It provides information to help you plan, start and grow your business.

AusIndustry

AusIndustry can give you information and advice to help you start your business. It provides a connection between small and medium size business and government.

They have a network of regional managers across the country, with a representative in Canberra focused on industry, research and innovation.

Austrade

Austrade helps Australian companies to grow their business overseas.

To get your business export-ready, visit the Austrade website.

Australian Business Register(ABR)

You can also register:

your business name
for taxes including the Goods and Services Tax (GST)
for Pay As You Go (PAYG) withholding.

Learn more on the ABR website.

Canberra Business Chamber (CBC)

Get advice and information at any business stage through CBC’s training, networking events and advice service.

Discover more on the CBC website.

Regional Development Australia (RDA)

RDA provides advice for new businesses, especially those in the food and agriculture sector.

Find out more on the RDA website.

Lighthouse Business Innovation Centre

Lighthouse can help your businesses launch and grow. Lighthouse runs the Canberra Business Advice and Support Service (CBASS) and can help with a range of business challenges.

Get more details on the Lighthouse website.