Business Support Group strengthening Anita's professional networks

28 January 2021

Anita Turner established Sapphire Graphics in 2018, after participating in the New Enterprise Incentive Scheme, a government initiative that assists people wanting to start their own business.

Based in Bega, Anita offers graphic design, digital media and photography services, and has more than 20 years’ experience within the graphics industry, including working at top Sydney advertising agencies, M&C Saatchi and Lavender, and in London for five years.

Bega Valley Business Support Group (BSG) member, Paul Morris of EY Virtual Drop-In Centre connected with Anita during the BSG Roadshow held late last year.

Paul created a business Roadmap, which identified the business could benefit from revising its business model and planning, to engage a broader customer base and drive growth.

He introduced Anita to another local digital business owner, resulting in a sub-contracting agreement through a business-to-business (B2B) collaboration.

Paul also referred Anita to another BSG member, Strengthening Business Facilitator Steve Millott, to provide more intensive and ongoing support.

Steve is working with Anita to develop a lean business plan, a marketing plan and introductions through the Strengthening Business network.

The triage process by EY Virtual Drop-In Centre identified the most pressing areas of need for targeted business support and established which business support service was best placed to provide it.

From operating with a limited client base and relatively low revenue flows, the B2B prospect has strengthened the development of Anita’s professional networks and subsequently, referrals.

Anita has received, and continues to receive, targeted and coordinated support from Steve to develop and grow, adding to the strength and diversity of the local economy.