Georges River Council has opened applications for its Small Business Technology Grant program, offering local businesses up to $5,000 towards technology upgrades.

The program, now in its third year, has helped over 60 St George area businesses modernise their operations. Last year’s recipients included retailers, health practitioners, and hospitality venues across Hurstville, Kogarah, and surrounding suburbs.

What’s Funded

The grants cover:

• Point of sale and payment systems
• Online ordering and booking platforms
• Inventory management software
• Cybersecurity improvements
• Digital marketing tools
• Business productivity software

Hardware purchases must be bundled with software or services—standalone equipment purchases aren’t eligible.

Application Requirements

Businesses must:

• Be located within the Georges River Council area
• Have an ABN and be registered for GST
• Employ fewer than 20 staff
• Have been operating for at least 12 months
• Demonstrate how the technology will improve business outcomes

Previous grant recipients can apply again, but priority goes to first-time applicants.

How to Apply

Applications are online through the Georges River Council website. You’ll need to provide:

• Business registration details
• Quotes for the technology you’re proposing
• A brief explanation of how the upgrade will help your business
• Evidence of current business operations (recent BAS or similar)

Council staff are available to help with applications at Hurstville Library on Tuesday afternoons through February.

Competition and Success Tips

Demand typically exceeds available funding by three to four times. Successful applications tend to:

• Focus on specific, measurable improvements rather than vague “modernisation”
• Include quotes from local suppliers where possible
• Show realistic implementation timelines
• Explain how the business will maintain the technology after the grant period

“We’re looking for practical projects that will genuinely help businesses serve their customers better,” says Council’s economic development manager.

Past Recipients

Last year’s funded projects included:

A Kogarah physiotherapy clinic implementing online booking to reduce phone calls and no-shows. They reported a 40% reduction in missed appointments.

A Hurstville bakery installing modern point of sale systems that integrate with delivery platforms. The owner estimates they’re saving 10 hours weekly on order management.

A Mortdale hair salon adding online booking and automated reminders. Their rebooking rate increased from 45% to 68%.

Timeline

• Applications open: Now
• Information sessions: February 12 and 26 at Hurstville Library
• Applications close: March 31, 2026
• Successful applicants notified: Late April
• Funding distributed: May 2026

Other Business Support

Businesses that don’t secure grants can still access:

• Free business advisory sessions through Council’s economic development team
• Subsidised training through Business NSW
• Federal government programs through business.gov.au

Council also maintains a directory of local technology providers who offer small business rates.

For full details and to apply, visit the Georges River Council business support page or call 9330 6400.