The Business Basics Grant program, offered by the Queensland government, is a significant opportunity for small businesses to enhance their digital presence, improve internal processes, and elevate overall business performance. For businesses at a pivotal point in their growth journey, this grant can be the catalyst that enables them to take the next step toward scaling, attracting new customers, or gaining a competitive edge in their industry.

With grants of up to $7,500, businesses can invest in vital business activities such as website development, digital marketing strategies, and business coaching—areas that often require professional expertise but may be out of reach for smaller businesses without external support.

Here, we will explore how the Business Basics Grant can transform your small business, break down the application process, and explain how Seedling Digital can help you maximise the benefits of this funding to achieve lasting growth.

What is the Business Basics Grant program?

The Business Basics grant program is designed for small businesses based in Queensland that are looking to improve their business capabilities and performance. The highly competitive grant aims to support activities that will help businesses grow, become more resilient, and take advantage of new opportunities.

Key benefits of the Business Basics Grant include:

• Up to $7,500 in funding: this grant provides up to $7,500 for eligible activities, paid upfront, enabling businesses to take immediate action toward growth.
• Business development opportunities: the grant covers a wide range of business development activities, including strategic marketing, website upgrades, professional advice, and it systems improvements.
• Targeted growth areas: the grant encourages small businesses to focus on areas that can provide the highest returns, such as digital strategy, online presence, and customer engagement.Accessibility: unlike loans, the business basics grant does not need to be repaid, giving businesses financial freedom to make crucial improvements without incurring debt.

Who is eligible for the Business Basics Grant?

Not all businesses are eligible for the grant, so it’s essential to understand the criteria before applying.

Your business must meet the following requirements:

• Small business with fewer than five employees: the grant is specifically designed for small businesses, so your team must be comprised of fewer than five full-time employees at the time of applying.
• Turnover under $300,000 per year: to ensure the grant reaches the right businesses, it is limited to businesses with an annual turnover of less than $300,000.
• Operating in Queensland: your business must be located and actively operating in Queensland to qualify.

If your business meets these criteria, you may be eligible to apply for this valuable financial support, which can help unlock the next stage of your business’s growth.

How can you use the Business Basics Grant?

The Business Basics Grant can be used to fund activities that improve your business’s core capabilities, digital presence, and overall operations. Some common ways small businesses have used this grant include:

Website development and upgrades:

A professional, well-designed website is critical to making a strong first impression and engaging customers. Whether your website is outdated or you’re starting from scratch, the grant can cover the cost of creating a modern, user-friendly website optimized for both desktop and mobile users. With digital commerce and online interaction becoming more important than ever, a seamless, fast, and intuitive website can dramatically increase user engagement and conversion rates.

Strategic marketing services:

For businesses struggling to stand out in a crowded market, the grant can be used to develop strategic marketing plans. This could include anything from SEO services to help your website rank higher in search engine results to social media strategies that engage with your audience and build brand loyalty.

The grant can also be used to develop high-impact content marketing campaigns, email marketing funnels, or advertising plans that align with your business objectives.

Business coaching and professional advice:

The business basics grant can be utilized to engage with industry professionals who can provide business coaching, mentorship, or advice on streamlining your operations, improving customer service, or navigating new markets.
A business coach can offer you the guidance and tools to make data-driven decisions, refine your business processes, and improve profitability.

Upgrading or implementing IT systems:

In the digital age, having the right tools and technology in place is essential for running an efficient business. The grant can be used to implement or upgrade your it infrastructure, ensuring that your business runs smoothly, securely, and efficiently.

Businesses can use the grant to adopt new software or platforms that streamline daily operations or provide better customer management solutions.

The Business Basics Grant process

The business basics grant program follows a structured application process, and it’s important to familiarize yourself with the steps to ensure that you submit a strong application. Here’s a brief outline of how it works:

Registration of interest:

Initially, businesses need to submit a registration of interest to express their intent to apply for the grant. This stage is essential, as only shortlisted businesses from this round will be invited to submit a full application.
The registration is usually open for a limited time, and given the popularity of the grant, it’s critical to register as early as possible.

Full application:

If your business is shortlisted following stage one, you’ll be asked to submit a full application detailing your proposed activities and how the grant will be used to support your business goals.
Your application will need to outline your business objectives, the specific activities you plan to fund with the grant, and how these activities align with the program’s goals of fostering growth and improvement.

Funding disbursement:

For successful applicants, the grant funding will be disbursed upfront, allowing businesses to immediately implement their proposed activities.

It’s important to ensure that the activities you propose are clearly aligned with your business’s needs and the goals of the business basics grant program to increase your chances of success.

How Seedling Digital can help you make the most of the Business Basics Grant?

At Seedling Digital, we specialise in helping businesses leverage opportunities like the Business Basics Grant to achieve real, lasting growth. With our expertise in digital strategy, website development, and marketing, we can help you maximise the benefits of the grant in several ways:

Bespoke website solutions

Whether you need a brand-new website or an upgrade to an existing one, Seedling Digital offers custom website development services tailored to your business. Our websites are designed with scalability in mind, ensuring they grow alongside your business and meet evolving customer needs.

Strategic marketing support

We can create comprehensive marketing strategies that are data-driven and focused on attracting your target audience. Whether it’s through seo, social media, or content marketing, we’ll help you position your brand as a leader in your industry.

Brand identity and digital presence

Our team works closely with you to ensure that your digital presence aligns with your brand’s unique voice and values. From a cohesive visual identity to an engaging online experience, we’ll make sure your brand stands out in the digital landscape.

Ongoing support and education

Beyond delivering a solution, we empower our clients by offering ongoing support and education. We help you understand how to leverage your new digital assets effectively, ensuring sustainable long-term success.

Why now is the perfect time to apply for the Business Basics Grant

If your business needs a digital upgrade, whether it’s a new website, a refreshed brand identity, or a more robust marketing strategy, the business basics grant can provide the financial support you need. Seedling Digital is here to help you navigate the process and ensure that the grant is put to the best possible use, driving your business forward.

Ready to apply for the Business Basics Grant?

Let us help you make the most of your Business Basics Grant application and increase your chance of approval. Let’s discuss how we can help transform your digital presence and accelerate your business growth.