Research revealed that more than 1.1 million SMBs have made significant sacrifices in the past year to stay afloat. Due to a national call out to entrepreneurs, Vistaprint and 99designs by Vistaprint is offering much-needed support to six inspiring SMBs across Australia.
A study conducted by Vistaprint in partnership with YouGov recently showed that alongside making major sacrifices to keep their dreams alive, small business owners are facing huge challenges – from cash flow to skills shortages – and are in desperate need of support.
Inspiration for the 99designs by Vistaprint grants
32% highlighted marketing as one of their biggest challenges in the past year, 33% noted financial support as a main struggle, and 10% called out design as their key pain point.
As part of a global campaign to empower 99 small businesses around the world, 99designs by Vistaprint launched 99 Days of Design, an initiative to provide financial support, refreshed design identities and marketing materials to 99 SMBs off the back of a challenging period.
The 99 Days of Design initiative is part of Vistaprint’s larger goal to be a true partner to small businesses by providing the tools and expert creative help they need to reach their goals.
The program, officially launched by 99designs by Vistaprint, is focused on businesses from 12 countries: the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, and Australia.
Within Australia, the 99 Days of Design call out for SMBs received almost 2,000 nominations.
Six amazing local businesses were selected by a panel of business experts and entrepreneurs including Vistaprint Australia CEO Marcus Marchant, 99designs by Vistaprint CEO Patrick Llewellyn, alongside entrepreneurs Twice Blessed and artist Rachael Sarra.
Components of the 99designs by Vistaprint grants
Each small business will now receive a refreshed brand identity developed with 99designs by Vistaprint and marketing materials, as well as a $15,000 AUD financial donation to help their business during this unprecedented time of change.
The nominated businesses cover a diverse range of industries from home improvement and food & beverage, to charities and conservation.
One company is OWAD Environment, an amazing business who has worked tirelessly during bushfires to support finding and rehabilitating koalas, and thanks in part to 99 Days of Design, will be able to continue and expand its work in this critical space.
Another nominee is Holistic Avenue, a local charity which has seen COVID-19 impact its ability to raise funds for vital services to fight domestic and family violence and sexual assault.
Renee Ellison, Founder of Holistic Avenue said, “We can’t explain how thrilled we are to have been selected by 99designs by Vistaprint and Vistaprint. This support will allow us to create more awareness for the charity so that we can really ramp up our fundraising in 2021.”
“While COVID has impacted our ability to fundraise hugely, our services have never been more needed. We are so thankful to be able to continue the great work we do, and hopefully with this new lease of life, extend our services further to support those in need.”
Other businesses include LGBTQ community fitness company Pride Fitness in NSW, coffee van Messin with Jim in Victoria, and Clive’s Gardening and Fencing which will now be reborn as Dave’s Fencing while original owner Clive moves into a new industry and personal passion.
Vistaprint Australia CEO, Marcus Marchant said, “It has been an incredibly tough time for small business owners around the world and here in Australia.”
“From bushfires and floods to COVID-19, many are still feeling the impact with snap border closures and lockdowns across the country impacting many industries.”
“Through 99 Days of Design, we’re excited to support businesses and help them on their road to recovery, by offering much needed support to help them further promote their business.”
