BizCover’s commitment to small business has meant that we have had the pleasure to support the National NEIS Association(NNA) since 2014. The NNA gives training and support to individuals who wish to start a small business, teaching them the skills they need to make their venture a success.
One part of our sponsorship, that we are very proud of, is the annual BizCover/NEIS Change Award.
These nominees have seen a great change in their professional and personal lives, building successful small businesses through the NEIS program.
Jay Aggarwal Awaken Tours
Jay, a new father, joined the NEIS program at the start of the year, after needing to find a way to support his young family while also being able to spend time with them.
His love of nature and Aboriginal culture lead Jay to create Awaken Tours.
The Business offers relaxing day tours in the Dandenong Ranges where participants can explore the majestic forest, discover Aboriginal sculptures, learn about the traditional culture, spot wildlife and enjoy a delicious gourmet lunch.
Since starting with the NEIS program in January, Jay has already managed to partner with the biggest tour booking company in Melbourne, selling his tours from the Visitor Information Centre.
Mark Booker Lambton Local
“It is one thing to identify an opportunity in a market. It is another thing entirely to go out and prove yourself, your family and your mentors that you can turn that opportunity into a reality.”
In 2013, after 22 years in the Industry, Mark Booker suddenly found himself looking for his next venture. With the belief there was still a viable market in community news, Mark joined the NEIS program in 2014 and started the Lambton Local.
The Lambton Local is a monthly community newspaper delivered to around 4,000 residents and businesses, funded entirely by display advertising.
In the two years since starting, Booker has also expanded his publication to another suburb and plans to expand his network of publications across the Newcastle Area.
David Hartog Refocus Health
“I have always liked working for myself and being able to channel my work in directions I liked and wanted to go.”
Working as the manager of a swim school, David Hartog, wanted to find further fulfilment and achieve his childhood dream of becoming a Naturopath.
At the end of 2014, David joined the NEIS program and started his own mobile naturopathic and personal training business.
Refocus Health is designed to provide a complimentary healthcare facility to other practitioners and their clients for pain management, cardiovascular health diabetes and weight loss.
William Hunt William Hunt Designs
William Hunt had always felt constrained in traditional work environments. With the help of NEIS, he was able to start his own business William Hunt Design in mid 2015 and since then has flourished.
Now working in a vibrant studio with other creatives, William has seen his designs featured on a National television, worked as a guest teacher at a high school and is planning to hire his own junior designer as his business grows in the next year.
We wish all our 4 finalists the best of luck. The Winner will be announced during the NEIS conference 13-16th of August in Melbourne.
