From little things ...

From the outside, the Rockingham Business Development Centre looks much like any other industrial office building – largely unremarkable.

However, stepping inside the Crompton Road premises reveals an unexpected hive of activity.

About 26 small businesses are based in offices, workshops, kitchens and studios adjoining the centre. Electricians work alongside cooks, hypnotherapists next to accountants and migration agents with artists.

Despite their diversity, businesses at the centre share a common thread — they are all small and have generally been operating for less than three years.

According to manager Tony Beard, the centre acts as an incubation facility, helping new businesses establish and consolidate their operation.

“It’s called an incubator because they hatch out of here when their business shows sufficient growth,” Mr Beard said.

“They come here and rent space, but don’t sign a lease.

“So if you wanted somewhere to have your computer set up and base your business, we’d bring you in here.”

Fudge-A-Licious, a confectionary company which makes fudge and nougat, moved to the centre after outgrowing their home-based premises.

Bronwyn Hill, who co-owns the business with husband John, said the reduced cost of operating from the centre helped minimise overheads.

“You need cheaper rent to get to the next level of your business,” she said.

“We’re trying to grow our business so we need to keep our expenses low. This helps us to do that.”

Another business in the centre, Clinical Excellence Technologies, develops web-based software used by mental health agencies.

Managing Director Anton Pearce said the centre gave him a base from which to grow the company while in its infancy.

“I’m in the start-up phase and it’s quite a risky time for the business,” he said.

“The main thing for me is keeping costs low until I start making sales.

“This centre is close to home and gives me a good base to quietly get on with things.”

The RBDC also houses the Rockingham Small Business Centre, which provides resources for people starting a business.