In this world where opportunities are endless and the expectations on entrepreneurs only continue to increase, it can be easy for founders to get lost in the chaos.

Enter: The University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) Institute for Resilient Regions' WiRE (Women in Rural, Regional and Remote Enterprises) Program – a capability-building program and a support network for regional, rural and remote women to excel in business, build connections, and learn how to market themselves and their business to the world.

Darling Downs business owner Liz Couchman joined the WiRE Program in 2023 after purchasing her child sensory play business, Clever Bugs.

"I decided to participate in the WiRE Program because I felt isolated and alone working from home on my rural property; I had no one to 'talk shop' with," Mrs Couchman said.

"It was great to connect with other inspiring women. I not only learnt so much from the knowledge sessions and from the other members, but I also found skills and talents that I wanted to use for new business ideas" she said.

"Connecting with other like-minded people on the same path gave me momentum and a sense of belonging that is sometimes lacking in the small business world – especially working rurally or remotely."