SBDC REGIONAL
Running a small business in Esperance can bring many opportunities but also challenges, as you juggle all the things you need to tackle every day.
Turn to SBDC Regional when you need advice and guidance to help you get ahead in business. Esperance Chamber of Commerce and Industry is the provider of SBDC Regional services in Esperance. We can deliver tailored advice through local advisers who really understand how things work in your area, whether you’re in Esperance, Ravensthorpe, Hopetoun or somewhere in between.
SBDC Regional services are funded by the Government of Western Australia through the Small Business Development Corporation.
If you are a small business owner or run a social enterprise or commercial not-for-profit, SBDC Regional advisers offer expert guidance on small business topics including:
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Assessing new business ideas
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Steps to starting a business
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Business licences and permits
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Business planning
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Market research
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Financial management
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Marketing​
Business Advisers
Gerry Harp
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Gerry specialises in assessing new business ideas, law and legislation surrounding licences & permits, and seeking grants.
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As a local with decades of experience in Agriculture, Building & Construction and Community Services, Gerry combines his local knowledge with understanding about the complexities of running a business.
Dimuthu Hathurusinghe
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Dimuthu specialises in banking and finance, guiding entrepreneurs through essential aspects like business structures, goal setting, basic account setup, and financial management.
He can help startups navigate the complexities of licensing, feasibility assessments, securing financing, understanding business plans, and forecasting cash flow.
Gaby Castro
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Gabriela specialises in identifying strategic insights to take your business to the next level and is also in her element assisting startups to navigate through the steps of starting a new business, working through business ideas, business planning, licensing and permits.
Dedicated to supporting rural businesses, she is skilled at driving success & building meaningful relationships while contributing to economic growth in rural communities.
Natika Hawes-Wright
Natika specialises in digital strategy, AI tools, social media, and building strong online presence for small businesses.
With practical experience supporting regional businesses, she understands the unique challenges of operating in remote areas and brings a down-to-earth approach to technology. Natika empowers business owners to grow their digital confidence, streamline workflows, and make smart, cost-effective decisions that support long-term success.
Raquel Nelson
A long-time Esperance local and recently retired after 25 years running her own retail business, Raquel brings deep insight into the challenges and opportunities of small business ownership. She supports entrepreneurs with business planning, marketing guidance, sales techniques, risk management, and identifying cost-saving opportunities to help build strong, sustainable businesses in the region.
Pola Reyes
Pola blends creativity with hands-on leadership in the hospitality and tourism space.
Currently managing a thriving local coffee shop in Esperance, she brings real world expertise in team development, training and staff retention, stock and inventory management, customer experience, and strategic growth. Passionate about tourism startups and sustainable practices, she helps small businesses strengthen their offering through menu design, events, use of social media, and practical day to day improvements.
Niki Burnett
Niki specialises in recruitment strategies and people solutions, helping businesses attract, develop, and retain staff.
With over 20 years’ experience in business management and 17 years living in Esperance, Niki understands the unique workforce challenges of the region. She works closely with local businesses to develop practical, tailored staffing strategies that support long-term growth and team success.
