Listed below are some useful links on government help for business, business planning and the Australian venture capital industry.

Government Programs

Business Entry Point
This is the gateway site to a number of useful Commonwealth and State Government business initiatives.

AusIndustry
Information about AusIndustry, the Industry Research and Development Board, its members and the programs it administers, including Commercial Ready, Innovation Investment Fund (IIF), R&D Tax Concession and the Renewable Energy Equity Fund (REEF).

Australian Trade Commission (Austrade)
Austrade is a source of information and assistance for Australian exporters and international visitors.

Export Finance and Insurance Corporation (EFIC)
EFIC provides finance and insurance services to Australian exporters.

Business Partner

Pyksis Pty Ltd

Pyksis Pty Ltd is a highly experienced deliverer of learning, mentoring and service programs to technology and service based SMEs. Pyksis can also assist companies in a variety of government funding applications. VCP has become a Pyksis Alliance Partner, and together have worked closely to deliver complementary services, provide business referrals and generally promote the regional programs for the Victorian Department of Innovation, Industry and Regional Development.   To find out more about the services Pyksis provides, click on www.pyksis.com.

Business Plans
Get some ideas for the contents of your business plan from the following sites.

1. AVCAL - The Business Plan
   Essential information to be addressed in a business plan according to the Australian Venture Capital Association Limited (AVCAL) - the local industry body.
2. Australian Business Limited
   Provides a wide variety of essential and useful tips for doing business better.
3. SME Toolkit
   An initiative of International Finance Corporation, a member of the World Bank Group. As well as a section on business planning this site contains information on various aspects of running an SME business.
4. Small Business Plan Guide
   Contains a selection of resources to assist small businesses in preparing an effective business plan.
5. SBA - Starting Your Business
   The US Small Business Administration's 'The Business Plan - Road Map to Success' ~ A download and tutorial.

Australian Venture Capital Links
Australian Industry Associations and VC commentators.

AVCAL
The home page of the Australian Private Equity & Venture Capital Association.

Australian Venture Capital Journal
A source of information on the Australian venture capital industry.