Published on Wednesday, 20 May 2026 at 1:47:07 PM
The City of Busselton Council has endorsed the latest round of funding through its Business Development, Events and Marketing Program (BDEMP), continuing to support initiatives that deliver strong economic outcomes across the City.
Funded through the Commercial, Industrial and Holiday Home differential rate, the program first launched its Economic Development and Marketing Grants in August 2023. The initiative forms part of the City’s broader strategy to advance priorities outlined in the Council Plan 2024–2034.
Now in its third year, the program has allocated $76,000 to four projects, spanning a diverse range of business, marketing and economic development initiatives. Among the latest recipients are Creative Corner Inc., Busselton Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inspire and Collaborate; and Margaret River Wine Association, reflecting the breadth of innovative and collaborative ideas emerging from the local business community.
Mayor Phill Cronin said: “The program is empowering local businesses while ensuring the differential rate delivers meaningful outcomes.”
“This stream of funding has enabled our local business community greater input into how the differential rate is spent. To foster collaboration, leverage additional investment and support industry development, this funding is designed to benefit the broader business community.”
“The City seeks projects that contribute to the economic, social, environmental and cultural development of the City. The program has already generated a number of exciting initiatives and encouraged innovative and collaborative projects that are helping to shape a strong and sustainable future for the City.”
One initiative supported through the program is Innovation Cluster’s Future Founders program, which has received funding for the past two years. The program provides a dedicated youth education pathway for emerging innovators and entrepreneurs aged 16 to 25. It has addressed a growing need for leadership development and business skills training among young people, particularly recent school leavers. By fostering entrepreneurial thinking and capability, the program is helping to strengthen and support the next generation of business leaders.
Local success stories are already emerging, including young entrepreneur Max Tas. Max launched his business as a teenager, beginning with residential cleaning services and a single staff member. Since then, he has grown Spik n’ Span into a thriving enterprise employing more than 20 staff, including an Operations Manager. With continued growth, the business has recently transitioned into a company structure and secured its first leased premises in Queen Street, Busselton.
Max Tas said connecting with local business networks has played a major role in shaping both his business growth and mindset. “When I started, all I had was a mop in the back of my car and a goal to grow the business. I didn’t know where to begin.”
After attending a Lunch and Learn hosted by the Small Business Development Corporation Regional team, Max connected with local business owners and the City’s Economic Development team, leading him to the Innovation Cluster Future Founders mentoring program.
“That experience helped me set goals, focus on growth and learn the language of business,” Max further said.
Now a member of the Busselton Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Max hopes his journey inspires other young people to grow their businesses in Busselton.
Objectives outlined in this statement are aligned with the City of Busselton’s Council Plan (2024 - 2034) Key Theme Opportunity – We have a vibrant and growing economy with diverse opportunities for everyone to learn, work and flourish.
Ends. Media enquiries can be directed to pr@busselton.wa.gov.au
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