Local Buying Foundation

12/10/2026

South Australia Funding Round 2 closes this week!

Have an idea that could strengthen local businesses, support workforce development or create new businesses opportunities in your community?

Funding may be available for projects across Coober Pedy, Port Augusta, Port Pirie, Roxby Downs and Whyalla.

📅 Applications close 16 October 2026.

Apply now: bit.ly/46xPHKO

08/10/2026

The Upper Hunter is home to a vibrant community of local businesses, producers and makers, and we're proud to support the Upper Hunter Showcase at Going Country 2026.

Taking place on Saturday 17 October in Muswellbrook, this event celebrates the people, products and businesses that contribute to the region's success. It's an opportunity to connect with local suppliers, discover what's on offer across the Upper Hunter and support regional businesses.

If you're heading to Going Country, be sure to visit the Upper Hunter Showcase and meet the local businesses helping drive economic and community growth across the region.

Learn more: https://www.goingcountry.com.au/

08/10/2026

Supporting stronger local businesses and connected communities. Looking to sharpen your business skills? From business planning and leadership to practical AI tools, these free workshops offer something for every small business owner.

The Muswellbrook Chamber of Commerce and Industry is holding a series of FREE Business Workshops on Wednesday 28th October. You can attend all day, or choose selected sessions. Everyone is welcome, not just Chamber members. To register go to: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/2026-small-business-month-business-workshops-tickets-2002350320711?aff=oddtdtcreator

23/09/2026

Regional women are building confidence, capability and leadership networks and now their success has been recognised on a national stage.

The Bowen Basin Women in Leadership Program has received a Highly Commended award at the 2026 SPERA Awards, recognising its contribution to strengthening rural, regional and remote communities.

Delivered by Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays with funding from the Local Buying Foundation, the program is helping create future leaders across the Bowen Basin through mentoring, learning opportunities and peer support.

Congratulations to everyone involved in this outstanding achievement. 👏

Read more - https://spera.asn.au/the-bowen-basin-women-in-leadership-program/

The Bowen Basin Women in Leadership Program, delivered by Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays with funding from the Local Buying Foundation, supports regional women to build confidence, capability and networks so they can step into leadership roles.

16/09/2026

Congratulations to Business Singleton on being named Outstanding Local Chamber at the 2026 Business Hunter Awards.

As a Local Buying Foundation funding recipient, this recognition is a testament to the important work Business Singleton is doing to support local businesses, strengthen connections and create opportunities across the Singleton community.

Well done team! 🎉

09/09/2026

Ask R U OK? Any Day 💛

Today is R U OK? Day, and this year's message is simple but powerful: Ask R U OK? Any Day.

Strong communities are built on strong connections. Whether it's a colleague, supplier, business owner, community member, friend or family member, taking the time to check in can make a real difference.

A conversation doesn't need to have all the answers. Sometimes, knowing someone cares enough to ask and listen is what matters most.

At C-Res, we're proud to support the communities where we live and work. Today, and every day, let's look out for one another, have meaningful conversations and create spaces where people feel supported.

If someone's on your mind, ask them R U OK?

Build an R U OK Culture - https://www.ruok.org.au/workplace-champions

The R U OK? Workplace Champions resources support business leaders, owners and employees to build an open, supportive R U OK? workplace culture. Champion's drive change and these resources encourage teams to talk more, recognise the signs of mental health struggles and check in to ask "Are You OK?

08/09/2026

STRENGTH IN THE WEST | Meet Jessie

From local government and community development to supporting businesses and community organisations across Western Australia and South Australia, Jessie is passionate about helping local ideas become meaningful outcomes.

After moving to Port Hedland, she was drawn to the opportunity to contribute to the region she now calls home and has quickly fallen in love with the people, landscapes and strong community spirit that make the Pilbara so special.

🏃 Always makes time for: Getting outdoors, running, hitting the gym and exploring somewhere new.

📺 Favourite way to unwind: Curled up on the couch watching true crime documentaries on Youtube.

☕ Coffee or tea: Coffee. Always.

🐕 Dogs or cats: Dogs! Especially her greyhound, River, who turned her into a devoted greyhound fan.

🎧 Travel essential: AirPods, with an eye mask coming in a very close second.

🎬 Favourite movie series: The Hunger Games. A series she can watch over and over again.

Read Jessie's story and discover what inspires her work, her favourite Pilbara experience and why community-led solutions matter. 👉 bit.ly/4xu2R7N

26/08/2026

📢 Applications are now open for South Australia's Funding Round 2

Do you have an idea that could strengthen regional businesses, support workforce development or create opportunities for your local community?

The Local Buying Foundation is inviting applications for South Australia Funding Round 2, supporting projects that help build stronger, more resilient business communities across the Coober Pedy, Port Augusta,
Port Pirie, Roxby Downs and Whyalla regions.

Whether you're looking to deliver a new initiative, expand a successful program or bring a fresh idea to life, funding may be available to help turn your vision into action.

Projects must deliver meaningful benefits to local businesses and align with one or more of our Funding Categories

📅 Applications close 16 October 2026.

To learn more and apply, visit the Local Buying Foundation bit.ly/46xPHKO.

24/08/2026

Meet the amazing Queensland Trading Tracks team!

Supporting Mackay and Isaac region Indigenous businesses and their journey, whether you're starting up or established. Get in touch with the team and find out how they can help you. 💜💜💜

24/08/2026

FY26 Annual Summary | A Year in Review

This year, The Local Buying Foundation invested more than $3 million into projects, events and initiatives supporting workforce development, business growth, Indigenous business capability and innovation.

Through the BHP Local Buying Program, more than $160 million was spent with local businesses, creating more than 10,000 work opportunities with over 800 suppliers across regional Australia.

But the numbers only tell part of the story.

Inside this year's Annual Summary, you'll find stories of businesses building capability, the expansion of Trading Tracks into South Australia, the growth of Supply Chain Ready, improvements to the buyer experience through a refreshed dashboard and the community initiatives helping regional businesses and communities prepare for future opportunities.

From supply chain participation to community investment, the FY26 Annual Summary highlights the outcomes being created through BHP partnerships, connections and the long term commitment to regional Australia.

Watch the FY26 Year in Review video here 👉 bit.ly/3UcXfjS
Read our online Annual Summary here 👉 adobe.ly/4xcUM7v

This is "FY26 - Year in Review" by C-Res Community Resourcing on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.