text: Businesses have had to rethink, and some, reinvent the way they operate due to COVID-19. Here are some of the ways we’ve supported Banyule businesses with a range of grants to access new markets, move online, receive business coaching and seek financial advice.
  The next grant round will open in February 2021.
  Core Principles – Gene Alessi (pictured top left)
  Gene Alessi, Director and owner of Core Principles in Ivanhoe, decided to meet the impacts of COVID-19 head on. Engaging a specialised business coach, which the grant helped to fund, Gene ramped up his marketing and adapted his business model. Showing incredible resilience, Gene has shielded his business from the impacts of lockdowns, while continuing to help new and existing members achieve their fitness goals.
  Tony’s Second Hand Furniture – Julie and Tony (pictured bottom right)
  With customers unable to visit their Heidelberg West showroom, Julie and Tony decided that business survival meant moving online. They received a business grant to pivot their business into the rental furniture market with an ecommerce site and online marketing campaign.
  Lu Lu Snap – Lucy Foster (pictured top right)
  Working in an industry that relies heavily upon events, Heidelberg based photographer, Lucy found herself without work when restrictions came into play. Lucy received a grant to rebrand her business to attract a new audience as well as develop a website that showcases her work to help increase sales leads.
  The Cartridge Place – Nick Aspridis (pictured bottom centre)
  With over 16 years owning a bricks and mortar retail store in Greensborough, owner Nick was starting to feel the impact of not having an online presence to sell his printing products. Nick received a grant to develop an ecommerce site to expand his market outside the local area and allow existing customers to order in a contactless environment.
  Little Sports Heroes – George Giannakopoulos. and Robbie Fiorini (Pictured bottom left)
  George and Robbie and their team of 20 were forced to shut down their sporting and development operations when restrictions came into play. They received a grant to purchase additional sporting equipment to offer families the opportunity to hire them out and keep their children active while stuck at home.
  To view the full list of COVID-19 Business Support Grant recipients from rounds 2 and 3 click here