Economic Development
Council works with local businesses, industry, government and community organisations to support a strong, diverse and sustainable regional economy.
This page brings together Council's economic development programs, business support initiatives, awards, updates and networking opportunities.
Read Council's Economic Development Charter(PDF, 1MB)
Longreach Region Small Business Awards
The Longreach Region Small Business Awards celebrate the small businesses that contribute to the strength, character and prosperity of our region. The Awards recognise excellence in business as well as the contribution local businesses make through outstanding customer service and community spirit.
There are three award categories:
- Business Excellence Award
- People's Choice Customer Service Award
- People's Choice Community Spirit Award
Applications and community nominations open during each Awards round. Visit the Small Business Awards page for current dates, eligibility requirements, prizes, program guidelines and application and nomination forms.
Small Business Friendly Grant
Council's Small Business Friendly Grant supports eligible local small businesses through targeted funding rounds aligned with regional business needs and Council's Economic Development Charter.
The focus, eligibility requirements, funding available and application dates may vary between rounds. Details of any future funding round will be published on this page when applications open.
There is currently no Small Business Friendly Grant round open for applications.
Businesses can subscribe to the Small Business Update to receive information about future grant rounds and other business opportunities.
Read the Small Business Friendly Grant Policy(PDF, 94KB)
Small Business Update
Council's Small Business Update shares useful information, resources and opportunities for businesses across the Longreach Region.
Updates are issued from time to time when there is relevant information to share. They may include funding opportunities, business support programs, training, events, regulatory information and other matters affecting local businesses.
Previous Small Business Updates
Previous editions contain information current at the time of publication. Links, dates and opportunities in older editions may no longer be current.
2026
2025
2024
Small Business Friendly Program
Council is a member of the Queensland Small Business Commissioner's Small Business Friendly Program.
The program brings councils and other organisations together to improve the operating environment for small businesses and strengthen the way participating organisations engage with their local business communities.
Council's Small Business Friendly initiatives include business grants, awards, information updates, networking and capability-building opportunities.
About the Small Business Friendly Program
Business Networking and Events
Council hosts and supports business networking, information and capability-building events across the region from time to time.
These events provide opportunities for local business owners and operators to build practical skills, hear from guest presenters, share experiences and connect with other people involved in the regional economy.
Details of upcoming events will be published on this page and shared through Council's Small Business Update when opportunities are available.
Contact Council
For information about Council's economic development initiatives, contact Council's Economic Development team on (07) 4658 4111.