iTeC Academy launches free networking club to help businesses grow

A new Business Connections Club is set to launch at iTeC Academy on Wednesday (11 December), offering business owners and operators an opportunity to network, learn and grow.

Featuring guest speakers such as Kachina Dimmock of Collective Catalysts, the free bi-monthly events aim to empower attendees with actionable insights and opportunities for Q&As.

iTeC Academy business development manager Virginia Wren has spent 21 years working with new and existing businesses through Illawarra iTeC to provide business advice and deliver business workshops and training.

“I founded the Wollongong Small Business Club (WSBC) and facilitated their networking meetings for 18 years until it was disbanded due to COVID,” Virginia said.

“We recently merged with IRT to form ITeC Academy and this has been energising for staff and students.

“With our renewed energy we have set out to offer bi-monthly Business Connections Club meetings which are free business networking events.”

She said Kachina’s topic on Wednesday would be “Empower Your Marketing With AI”, sharing how to leverage AI to elevate your work, not replace it.

It would then be followed by meetings in February, April, June, August and October.

“The club aims to encourage B2B sales by providing an opportunity for business owners and operators to meet new customers and clients, and gain insights from listening to high-profile business speakers, ultimately enhancing their business skills,” she said.

“Business networking is one of the most powerful tools for promoting and growing your business.

“It helps strengthen your reputation, create partnerships, and form mentorships with other local businesses.”

Virginia said networking also allowed participants to learn from others, expand their business connections, and gain confidence.

She said it was essential for businesses to continually promote their products or services, with sponsors allowing iTeC to offer the events as a free platform to support that.

“Their support allows us to bring in great speakers and offer quality catering, making each event more enjoyable and valuable for attendees,” she said.

She said the Business Connections Club was open to any business owner or operator looking to expand their network, gain new insights, and build relationships to help grow their business.

“Networking is about more than just what you can gain; it’s about offering value to others as well,” she said.

“By approaching networking with a mindset of mutual benefit, you can enhance your business reputation, create new opportunities, and foster lasting relationships.”

Virginia said since the merger between IRT and Illawarra iTeC to form iTeC Academy, it had continued to provide accredited training in business, hospitality, construction and the entertainment industry, including music, and screen and media, along with short sharp workshops.

She said due to the merger, it was now also able to provide accredited training in aged and disability care.

Business Connection Club will be held Wednesday 11 December from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at ITeC Academy at 1-5 Miller St, Coniston.

Learn more and register for upcoming events on the iTeC Academy website.