Digital training, please: Applications called for Gosford, Gold Coast and Wollongong

 

APPLICATIONS have been called for organisations to deliver Digital Enterprise training to businesses in the Gosford (NSW), Gold Coast (Qld), and Wollongong (NSW) regions.

 

The Digital Enterprise program is funded through the Federal Government and aims to assist business to learn about the opportunities available to them though the digital economy.

Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, called for applications through this fourth round of the Digital Enterprise program. He said Gosford, Gold Coast and Wollongong were the three largest communities where NBN construction has commenced that are yet to receive funding as part of the Digital Enterprise program.

The Digital Enterprise program offers free expert training for local businesses and not-for-profit organisations to adapt to the online world and gain a better understanding of the many opportunities provided through the National Broadband Network (NBN).

The selected organisations will be awarded grants worth up to $280,000.

“It’s so important that small businesses get online and start thinking about how they can make the NBN work for them,” Senator Conroy said.

“We are already seeing how the Digital Enterprise program is helping small businesses take full advantage of the benefits that come from embracing the digital economy.

“For example, WorkForce Blueprint in Willunga, South Australia, has used the program’s training to improve their online business strategy. Now their entire business, including email, documents and finance software lives in the cloud, meaning their employees can work from anywhere, anytime that suits.

“Another small business established in 2011, Didgeridoo Dojo, participated in the training program and delivers online didgeridoo lessons to 7,500 customers, with a 1000 hours of lessons being viewed each month.

“Many other businesses are also taking advantage of the free training that is being offered. Across Australia, there have been more than 4,800 participants in the Digital Enterprise program.

“I urge local organisations from Gosford, the Gold Coast, and Wollongong, to apply for funding to deliver this important program.”

The Digital Enterprise program is currently operating in 44 communities around Australia. These communities are some of the first in the country to access the benefits of the NBN, Sen. Conroy said.

The closing date for round four applications is 2pm on April 29, 2013. Digital Enterprise Round Four Program Guidelines are available at: www.dbcde.gov.au/digitalenterprise