NSW Government backs small business in growing digital economy
Media release | 25 October 2017
Deputy Premier and Minister for Small Business John Barilaro said a new report shows small businesses are successfully taking up digital tools to boost revenue growth and job creation.
Mr Barilaro said the Deloitte Access Economics’ Connected Small Businesses 2017 report for Google found SME adoption of digital tools is growing strongly.
“This survey of 1,500 businesses shows that in the past year 12% of businesses had ramped up their level of digital engagement beyond basic levels.
“For the first time, half of SMEs have reached either high or advanced levels of engagement across areas that include social media, e-commerce, websites, online marketing tools and data analytics.
“This shows SMEs are becoming more sophisticated in their use of digital technologies to help drive their businesses.
“This is great news as digital tools can improve business operations, support business strategies and are strongly connected with revenue growth, innovation and expanded market reach.
“The report shows SMEs with advanced levels of digital engagement are 50% more likely to be growing revenue and can earn 60% more revenue per employee.”
Mr Barilaro said the NSW Government’s Business Connect program is helping SMEs achieve success by boosting their digital and other business skills.
“Business Connect offers low-cost, face-to-face advisory services as well as a wide range of seminars and workshops to support small business growth and digital readiness including statewide visits by the Business Bus.
“I strongly encourage SMEs to register for the Business Connect service and take advantage of what it has to offer.
“The NSW Government is committed to helping small businesses thrive by developing the specialist knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the growing digital economy.”
To access the Deloitte report visit https://www2.deloitte.com/au/en/pages/economics/articles/connected-small-businesses-google.html
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