An innovative program providing personalised business coaching and micro business loans is helping eligible South Australian women to start, develop and grow their own small businesses.


Mount Gambier business owner Ameeta Gangaram is one of 31 South Australian women who joined the LaunchMe SA program in the 2023-24 financial year.


A partnership between the Department of Human Services and Good Shepherd Australia New Zealand, LaunchMe provides business coaching and resources, as well as access to no interest business loans of up to $5000.


Ms Gangaram joined the program last year, after a move from Brisbane to Mount Gambier meant an initial downturn for her marketing agency Holistic Vision.


Joining the LaunchMe business recovery program, she was able to reinvigorate and redefine her business which provides marketing services for allied health professionals.


“Joining the LaunchMe Recovery Coaching Program last year was a pivotal turning point in my business journey,” she said.


“Having moved from Brisbane to Mount Gambier, I faced a downturn in business for my marketing agency, and this significantly impacted my mental and emotional wellbeing.


“Through the LaunchMe program’s expert guidance, I gained the confidence and clarity to redefine my business focus. This, in turn, has led to consistent growth and financial stability for my business.


“Beyond business success, the program has empowered me with the tools to create a balanced and fulfilling life. I am incredibly grateful for the support and believe this program is instrumental in helping women in business overcome challenges and achieve their full potential.”


LaunchMe is again helping more women this financial year thanks to continued funding support from the State Government.


So far, the program – for women earning under $75,000 and with a viable business idea – has supported participants around South Australia to develop small businesses and solo ventures including a driving instructor, tea shop owner, martial arts school, biomedical clinical trials, mobile makeup artist, counsellor, organic skin care business and movement coach.


Participants learnt how to generate revenue from their business ideas, with the women reporting improved knowledge in managing their business and their money.


LaunchMe SA also provides referrals to Good Shepherd’s financial wellbeing services including their Financial Independence Hub.


It aims to reach women from all parts of the state and from all backgrounds, including women with lived experience of financial vulnerability.


In addition to one-on-one business coaching, the program provides webinars with experts including business strategists, legal practitioners, and social media marketing consultants.


The program is currently funded by the State Government through to June 30, 2025.


Minister for Seniors and Ageing Well Nat Cook said Good Shepherd was a key part of the State Government’s broad suite of financial wellbeing services that offer support and help for South Australians doing it tough.


“I really like that Good Shepherd’s vision is for all women, girls and families to be safe, well, strong and connected and I’m so pleased to see the LaunchMe program achieving some fantastic outcomes for South Australian women who might not otherwise have the tools or support available to get into business for themselves or recover and redefine their business like Ameeta has done,” she said.


“This program has helped women recovering from partnership breakdowns, single mums, women recovering from severe stress and burnout, and women in regional areas all find reward in running their own business – and importantly, helping them to succeed in their entrepreneurial endeavours.”


Shepherd Australia New Zealand chief executive Stella Avramopoulos said LaunchMe continues to empower South Australian women to develop, implement and consolidate a small business.


“Over the past year Good Shepherd has worked with a variety of emerging businesswomen, from a clothing designer to a recruitment consultant who have participated in the LaunchMe program,” she said.


“LaunchMe participants have told us they have gained valuable business skills, they feel the experience has improved their financial independence and wellbeing, and prepared them well for future business opportunities.”


Visit www.goodshep.org.au/launchme or phone 1300 099 998 for more information.