AN initiative run by a Riverland business group is set to provide locals a way to test potential new commercial ventures.
The Renmark Paringa Network has begun accepting expressions of interest for its Shared Space project, which would allow numerous small business operators to occupy a single local shop area.
Renmark Paringa Network chair Clint Lewan said the initiative would help Riverlanders with an idea or existing product grow business confidence.
“At the moment we’re looking for businesses that want shared office space, or meeting and boardroom space,” Mr Lewan said.
“Or those that are looking at sharing a retail space. Home-based businesses that may not be able to afford a shop front of their own, but would be happy to put some money towards having their product in a shop front.
“Perhaps that product becomes popular enough where they’re confident in the turnover and the ability to take up a shop of their own somewhere in the future.
“(That) fills another empty shop and that domino effect is what we’re hoping for.”
Mr Lewan said locals seeking to launch a business can apply online to participate in the Shared Space project.
“The best way to express interest is through our website that is now up and running, leave a message on the Facebook page, or send an email,” he said.
“There’s a form they can fill out… it will come through to us and then we follow up to find out what their needs are and what their idea is.
“Even if it’s an idea they think could benefit a shared space environment, let us know and we can help facilitate it.”
Mr Lewan said the network was currently in the process of selecting a location for the Shared Space within Renmark.
“We’ve shortlisted a few spaces and we’re going to be meeting with the landlords of those spaces shortly to see what they’re willing to do,” he said.
“That process will probably (take) around a month, then we might know more within six weeks about where we want to set up.”
For further information regarding the Shared Space initiative visit the Renmark Paringa Network website (www.renmarkparinganetwork.com/shared-space) or Facebook page (www.facebook.com/renmarkparinganetwork/).