Learn the art of building a successful business

Sydney entrepreneurs who have transformed traditional business models with innovative ideas to attract customers will share their best advice for forging ahead at a free City of Sydney business seminar.

The City's Business 101 Seminar: Going against the grain - new business concepts will offer guidance on launching and growing a small business, as well as tips on where to turn for assistance.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the popular Business 101 seminars were an ideal way for up-and-coming business owners to get firsthand guidance from those who had already built successful enterprises.

"Small to medium-sized business represents 85 per cent of all businesses in the City of Sydney area and are crucial in helping us create a vibrant and sustainable city.

"I'm sure this seminar will inspire people to think about their own businesses in a new light and look for opportunities to grow and diversify," the Lord Mayor said.

Seminar speaker Emilya Colliver is founder and director of walking art tour business, Culture Scouts, and online Australian art gallery, Art Pharmacy. With a mission to make art affordable and accessible to everyone, Ms Colliver will discuss how she launched her popular businesses in a niche market.

"My advice to people with a business idea is to go for it. Start small, but don't be scared to launch and test, because every day you'll learn from your mistakes and grow by trying new business ideas," said Surry Hills-based Ms Colliver, whose business was helped with a grant from the City.

Alex Elliott-Howery and husband James Grant turned a small Marrickville cafe into the blossoming multi-faceted enterprise, Cornersmith, which now boasts a small pickling factory, hosts educational workshops and seminars and has a cookbook to its name. Ms Elliott-Howery will share how they became more than just another cafe, and what she's learnt along the way.

"Make sure you love what you're doing and know that it's all about connecting with your customers and being part of the local community," the multi-award winning co-founder of Cornersmith Ms Elliott-Howery said.

"You should try to be a pioneer and do something that your competitors aren't offering. I see education as being a great opportunity for businesses looking to expand in the future."

Also speaking at the seminar will be Duncan Connor, senior program officer with the Department of Industry, who will be on hand with advice on where to turn for professional support at every stage of business development.

Going Against the Grain - new business concepts will be held on 2 November at Customs House.

The seminar is free, but booking is essential. For more information or to register, visit: cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/business/business-support/programs-and-seminars/business-101-workshops

You can view podcasts of past Business 101 seminars and workshops on the City's website here: business101-workshops/videos