The Hunter Region Business Enterprise Centre is one of more than 130 BEC's that operate nationally to provide new and existing micro and small business clients with practical assistance in business planning, advice on marketing, budgeting and cash flow.

The assistance offered by the Hunter Region BEC is FREE, independent and confidential.

The Hunter Region BEC is community based, and is a result of an initiative from local companies, Cessnock City Council and Maitland City Council working in a partnership to assist in local economic development. In particular in the areas of assisting the establishment of new small business enterprises.

Hunter Region BEC is a non-profit, non political, autonomous organisation offering free advice to those establishing new enterprises, small businesses experiencing difficulties or those wishing to expand. Businesses can also take advantage of numerous Small Business Workshops and information seminars to assist in the development of their business.

The BEC also facilitates networking events and opportunities to encourage the growth and support of the business community in the Maitland and Cessnock local government areas.

The Lower Hunter Business Complex contains a business incubator that houses up to 28 units either in Office, Commercial or Light Industrial. Businesses enjoy economical easy-leasing arrangements with business mentoring services “on tap”.