May is looking real good for small business owners across Queensland – because Queensland Small Business Month (QSBM) is back and better than ever.
If you run a business, want to start one, or just love the hustle and bustle of local entrepreneurship, this is your month. Think: hands-on workshops, real talk from successful business owners, free mentoring (yes, free), and enough networking events to fill up your calendar – and possibly your LinkedIn connections.
So… what’s QSBM all about?
QSBM is a statewide celebration that puts the spotlight on small businesses – the legends who keep our local economy ticking. It’s about empowering business owners, connecting people, and building communities that thrive together.
And in 2025, the theme is "Recharge, Renew and Rebuild" – pretty fitting, right? After the rollercoaster of the past few years, it’s all about helping businesses grow stronger, smarter, and more connected.
Events You Should Absolutely Check Out
Here are a few standout events that you’ll want to lock into your diary ASAP:
Logan Small Business Conference & Showcase
When: 1 May
Where: Kingdom Life Centre, Park Ridge
Kicking off the month with a bang – this one’s all about connecting local legends. You’ll hear from industry experts, get practical tips, and have plenty of chances to chat with people who get what running a small biz is actually like. Big energy. Big ideas.
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Gladstone Business Expo
When: 1 May
Where: Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre
This is more than just a booth-hopping affair. It’s a full-on showcase of what Gladstone businesses are bringing to the table. From one-person startups to larger operators, if you’re in the region, this is the place to make connections and show up for your business community.
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Whitsundays Small Business Breakfast
When: 13 May
Where: Whitsunday Sailing Club, Airlie Beach
Yes, there’s coffee. Yes, there’s breakfast. But more importantly? There’s access to speakers like the Queensland Small Business Commissioner and a room full of movers and shakers from the region. If you like your mornings productive (and scenic), this one's gold.
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Scenic Rim Small Business Series
When: All through May
Where: Across the Scenic Rim
This is a whole series of events – not just one! Think practical workshops like grant writing, cash flow tips, and social media training, plus casual networking BBQs where you can actually meet people without awkward icebreakers.
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Financial Literacy Workshops: What’s My Bottom Line Telling Me?
When: Various dates in May
Where: Across QLD + Online
These workshops are perfect if you want to get a grip on your numbers. You'll dive into real-life case studies and learn how to decode your profit and loss statements, build a smarter bottom-line workflow, and know when your numbers are telling you something important.
The best part? You can book a 20-minute one-on-one session with business experts – from financial counsellors and ATO advisers to mental health coaches and cyber security specialists. Whether you're in Emerald, Brisbane, Mount Isa or tuning in online, there's a session with your name on it.
→Find out more
Why You Should Care (Even if You're Swamped)
We get it – business owners are busy. But here’s the thing: QSBM isn’t just “another thing to do.” It’s a chance to grow, to learn and to step back and work on your business instead of just in it. Plus, the connections you make? They can open doors in ways you won’t expect.
So don’t let May pass you by.
Ready to dive in?
You can browse the full calendar of events right here. Many of them are free or low-cost, and most are casual enough that you can come as you are (no stiff suits required).
Whether you're in the thick of running your shop, launching a side hustle, or thinking of taking the leap – Queensland Small Business Month is for you.