At the Kiama Business Network, we’re passionate about one thing - helping local business to thrive.

Our community is filled with hardworking, creative, and committed business owners, and KBN exists to support, connect and strengthen them.

Together, we’re building a stronger, more resilient local economy and a vibrant business culture right here in Kiama.

Formerly known as the Kiama and District Chamber of Commerce, our organisation has proudly served the business community for decades, evolving alongside the region’s needs.

In February, we relaunched as the Kiama Business Network, a name that better reflects our collaborative spirit and inclusive approach to local business support.

We are an independent, not-for-profit and apolitical organisation that represents a diverse mix of local businesses - from small start-ups and home-based enterprises to well-established retailers, tourism operators, trades, transport, light industries and professional services.

Our elected board reflects the diversity of our membership with passionate volunteers serving the community.

Over the past four years, membership has grown significantly from 82 to more than 230 members, a reflection of the trust and relevance KBN holds within the local community.

KBN works in strong collaboration with Kiama Council and regional stakeholders, such as Business Illawarra, ensuring that the voice of business is actively represented in local and regional decision-making.

Our advocacy efforts have already contributed to tangible improvements in areas such as town planning, local events, business infrastructure, and the creation of more opportunities for business visibility and engagement, including this year’s inaugural Kiama Business Awards.

Through collaboration, advocacy, and a packed calendar of development opportunities, KBN gives businesses the tools, confidence, and networks they need to grow.

Whether you’re an established business, a start-up, or an entrepreneur with an idea, there’s a place for you in our community.

Connecting through events and networking

Our regular Coffee Connect mornings and Business Connect events bring people together to share ideas, form partnerships and celebrate local success.

These include highlights like the Micro Business Showcase and the Mayoral Breakfast, which give members the chance to engage directly with community leaders and showcase the incredible range of local enterprise in our region.

Building skills and resilience

KBN’s Business Development Programs provide practical, relevant support for businesses at every stage. Through a mix of workshops, mentoring and specialised programs, including marketing workshops, social media training and Youth Mental Health First Aid certification.

Celebrating local success

Our annual KBN Business Awards recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of Kiama’s business leaders, innovators and community contributors.

It’s a chance to highlight the people and businesses who make our local economy such a strong and inspiring part of our region.

In 2025, six local businesses and business leaders represented Kiama as finalists at the Business Illawarra Awards, the largest cohort of finalists to date.

Supporting community and local economy

KBN proudly coordinates the Kiama Seaside Markets, which continue to be a cornerstone of our community - supporting local makers, food producers, and service clubs such as Rotary and Lions.

These markets not only bring visitors and vibrancy to our town but also play a key role in keeping money circulating locally.

We’ve also led community-driven campaigns such as Think, Shop & Buy Local and the COVID Recovery Initiative and we are fielding a KBN Member rowing team in the Kiama Ultra Challenge, supporting a range of charities as well as the Kiama Surf Life Saving branch.

Advocating for local business

Beyond events, KBN provides a strong and respected voice for business in the Kiama region. We advocate on important local issues, including the Housing and Employment Lands Strategies, Special Entertainment Precinct and 24-Hour Economy initiatives.

We’ve hosted Meet the Candidates events for Council, State and Federal elections, ensuring local business perspectives are heard where decisions are made.

Our advocacy and collaborations extend across a wide network, working with Business Illawarra, Business NSW, Kiama Municipal Council, TEAC, and the Economic Development and Housing teams to champion opportunities for growth and sustainability.

Investing in the future

KBN is also committed to nurturing the next generation of local business leaders. Through initiatives such as NGEN and Ignite Youth, and our sponsorship of the Kiama High School Year 12 Business Studies Award, which includes a cash prize and mentoring, we’re helping young people see entrepreneurship as an exciting and achievable path.

At KBN, we believe when local businesses succeed, the whole community benefits. Every connection, every collaboration, and every conversation brings us closer to a stronger, more prosperous Kiama.

We invite all local business owners, entrepreneurs and residents who share this vision to join us - come along to an event, follow us on social media, or simply reach out and say hello.

Together, we’re growing Kiama’s business community.

Please note - this is paid content