SUBURBAN SPARK
The Power of Social Media & Content: How to Grow Organically Without a Marketing Budget
📅 May 12 , 6:30pm
📍Wurriki Nyal, Geelong
🎟️ Free
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What is Suburban Spark?
AGENDA
We’ll open the event with casual networking — your chance to settle in, grab some refreshments, and start making meaningful connections with fellow local business owners.
💬 BUSINESS PITCHES
Ready to put your business idea in the spotlight? Suburban Spark offers six attendees the exclusive opportunity to deliver a 2-minute pitch
in front of a supportive audience of fellow entrepreneurs.
Selected participants will receive basic written feedback from our expert guest speaker and a member of the MIC team — giving you valuable insights to refine your pitch and grow your confidence. Spots are limited, so don’t miss your chance to apply and share your story!
🤳 WORKSHOP AND Q&A WITH ALISHA MARFATIA
Organic growth trumps paid ads — every time. In this powerful workshop, Alisha Marfatia from The Social Impact shares how she built a 7-figure business purely through organic reach, and how you can too. Get ready to learn the exact strategies she used to reach millions using Instagram Reels — without spending a cent on advertising. This session is packed with practical tips, real-world examples, and proven tactics that any business owner can apply. Trust us, you’ll want to bring a notepad for this one.
🤝 GUIDED NETWORKING
We go beyond the typical networking experience. Attendees will be divided into small groups and guided through a series of engaging discussion questions tailored to the event’s theme. It’s a chance to exchange ideas, share experiences, and dive deeper into how organic social media strategies are impacting real businesses, while making authentic connections along the way.
🌯 LIGHT CATERING AND CASUAL NETWORKING
Enjoy light catering while you mingle with fellow attendees in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Please note: We can only accommodate vegan and gluten-free dietary requirements. This is your chance to unwind, chat freely, and build genuine connections with other local business owners and entrepreneurs. Great conversations (and maybe future collaborations) often start over a snack!
EVENT DETAILS
6.30pm to 9pm
📍 Wurriki Nyal Civil Precinct Geelong
🎟️ Registration is FREE
Registration covers light catering, a workshop and Q&A with Alisha, plus the opportunity to pitch your idea and receive tangible feedback.
OUR SPEAKER
FOUNDER - THE SOCIAL IMPACT
Known as “The Reels Queen,” Alisha Marfatia is one of Australia’s leading Instagram and video marketing experts. As the founder of The Social Impact, she has helped thousands of entrepreneurs turn their social media presence into a powerful tool for visibility, engagement, and revenue - without relying on paid ads. Alisha built her own 6- and 7-figure businesses using Instagram alone and now dedicates her time to teaching others how to do the same. Through her high-energy workshops, sought-after keynotes, and practical trainings, she empowers business owners to create strategic, scroll-stopping content that drives real results.Her work has been featured across major media and trusted by coaches, creatives, and industry leaders who want to stand out, get seen, and sell out—all organically.
PITCH YOUR BUSINESS
Whether you're looking for practice, exposure, or insights to take your pitch to the next level — this is your moment to shine. Apply now for your chance to take the spotlight.
Registration
PAST EVENTS
Registration & Networking
MC Kick Off Welcome
Kick off the day with Anaita Sarkar, who will share actionable insights you can immediately apply to streamline your operations and boost your sales. With over 320,000 followers on TikTok, Anaita has become a go-to source for cutting-edge business strategies, tailored for even the busiest schedules.
You'll also get the chance to submit questions directly to Anaita with a live Q&A.
Network & Nibble Break - Fuel up and mingle during our brunch break. Enjoy a spread of bites and beverages. This is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, explore our exhibitor space, and discuss key takeaways from the morning session. Unwind, refresh, and prepare for the segments ahead.
Next up is Harry Sanders, the visionary behind Australia’s largest dedicated SEO agency, StudioHawk. Starting his business journey at just 17 while couch surfing, Harry has transformed his challenges into a source of inspiration.
Harry will provide actionable insights on leveraging SEO for sustainable business growth and making a significant impact in your community and industry.
Be part of the conversation in a Q&A panel hosted by Jules Lund founder of Tribe with Anaita Sarkar, Harry Sanders and Caitlin Judd sharing their insights into which digital tools you should be using for your business.
See how these businesses have embraced digital transformation - and how you can learn from their strategies
Make valuable connections with fellow entrepreneurs who share your vision and goals.
Key takeaways shared by the MC, followed by a 45-minute networking session in the main area, photo opportunities, and light refreshments. The event will conclude at 2:30 PM.
Connect, Learn, and Grow
Why Join Us?
🚀 Engage with like-minded individuals and industry leaders.
🚀 Learn from experts about actionable strategies and cutting-edge digital tools.
🚀Grow by applying what you've learned to drive your business forward.
we've got the answers...
What is Digital Day Out?
Digital Day Out is a unique half-day event designed to empower entrepreneurs and small business owners by focusing on personal and professional development. It's an opportunity to step away from daily operations and gain actionable insights and strategies in digital innovation, networking, and business growth. Scheduled to accommodate busy lifestyles, the event ensures inclusivity and accessibility for all attendees.
Why should I attend?
If you're looking to invest in your personal growth, learn new skills, and connect with like-minded individuals, Digital Day Out is for you. It's specially crafted for those eager to work *on* their business, not just in it. Attendees will leave the event with tangible tools, a refreshed mindset, and strategies to implement directly into their businesses.
Who is this event for?
Digital Day Out welcomes all entrepreneurs, small business owners, and anyone interested in embracing digital technologies for growth. Offering a platform to learn, share, and influence the future of business with fresh perspectives.
What can I expect to take away from this event?
You can expect to leave with actionable insights, practical tools, and the motivation to apply what you've learned to your business. The event is designed to leave you feeling positive and inspired, ready to take on challenges and explore new opportunities with the support of Melbourne Innovation Centre and a community of forward-thinkers.
When and where is Digital Day Out taking place?
Digital Day Out will be held on Thursday, 27th June 2024, at The Round in Nunawading, Victoria.
How can I register?
Registration is easy! Simply visit our website's registration page, fill out your details, and secure your spot. Early registration is encouraged to guarantee your participation in this transformative half-day event.
Are there any discounts or early bird registrations?
Yes, we offer early bird registration discounts, however these closed May 2, 2024.
Who can I contact for more information?
If you have any further questions or need more information, please don't hesitate to reach out via the contact our team via events@melbourneinnovation.com.au
What is the cancellation policy for Digital Day Out?
We understand that plans can change, which is why we offer a flexible cancellation policy. If you need to cancel your registration, you can do so for a full refund up to one month before the event date. Cancellations made less than one month prior to the event will be subject to a 50% cancellation fee. Unfortunately, we cannot offer refunds for cancellations made within 7 days of the event. To cancel, please contact us by emailing events@melbourneinnovation.com.au
Can accommodations be made for attendees with special needs?
Absolutely. We are committed to making Digital Day Out accessible to everyone. If you have special needs, require assistance, or have accessibility concerns, please contact us in advance through our emailing events@melbourneinnovation.com.au. We will work with you to accommodate your needs and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience at the event.
How can I inform you about my dietary requirements?
We strive to cater to various dietary requirements to ensure all our attendees can enjoy the refreshments provided. During the registration process, you will find a section to specify any dietary restrictions or preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergies. Please fill this out, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs. If you have specific concerns or requirements not covered in the registration form, feel free to reach out to us directly through the contact form on our website.
How can I become a sponsor or partner with Digital Day Out?
We welcome partnerships and sponsorships from organisations aligned with our mission to empower and support entrepreneurs and small businesses. For sponsorship inquiries and to learn more about how your organisation can be involved, please contact our COO Tess - tess.melville@melbourneinnovation.com.au
Is there parking available at the Round?
The Round offers convenient and free on-site parking facilities, ensuring easy access for all guests. The spacious car parks are just a short stroll away from our main entrance, making it a breeze to arrive for Digital Day Out. For more information, please visit the parking page here.
What's included in the goodie bag?
The digital goodie bag gives you access to three hours of personalised support through the Digital Solutions Program. This exclusive offer is available to new and qualifying businesses only.
Eligible businesses are those that haven't participated in Round 2 of the mentoring program and meet the following criteria:
- For-profit entities
- Located in Victoria
- Hold an active ABN
- Employing fewer than 20 full-time equivalent employees
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