New program backs women-led businesses across Moreton Bay

Published 5:00am 21 April 2026

Words by Belinda Boyce

Women-led businesses across Moreton Bay are gaining new opportunities to grow and lead, with the launch of a specialised leadership program backed by Community Bank Samford.

The Pine Rivers Chamber of Commerce has introduced the WIB Female Founders Leadership & Business Growth Program, designed to support local female entrepreneurs with leadership development, mentoring and practical business strategy.

Strong interest in the initiative has already seen 20 women selected for the inaugural cohort, with a waitlist forming ahead of the program’s next intake planned for mid-2026.

Building stronger local businesses

Pine Rivers Chamber of Commerce president Jo Stevens said the program highlights the value of investing in leadership capability within the local business community.

“This initiative demonstrates the impact that community banking can have when funding is directed into leadership and capability building,” she said.

“Supporting female founders strengthens local businesses, creates economic resilience, and benefits the entire Moreton Bay community.”

The program has been made accessible through grant funding from Community Bank Samford, reducing the financial barrier for business owners wanting to participate.

While the program’s market value is close to $10,000, participants in the inaugural cohort are able to take part for just $97.

Danni Vee

More than a traditional business course

Running over nine months, the hybrid program combines leadership development, strategic planning, mentoring and peer connection.

The program is facilitated by leadership and mindset expert Danni Vee, a long-time entrepreneur who has built and scaled multiple successful businesses over a 27-year career.

Vee said the program was developed in response to conversations with women business owners who often operate without leadership support tailored to founders.

“Business ownership is leadership,” she said.

“This program is about helping women recognise that and lead with greater confidence and clarity.”

Unlike many traditional business programs that focus purely on tactics, the Female Founders Program is built around Vee’s EMBODY™ framework, which integrates mindset, emotional resilience, boundaries and leadership identity alongside practical business growth strategies.

Community banking support

Community Bank Samford Business Development Manager Courtney Senior said the initiative reflects the bank’s long-term focus on strengthening local businesses and communities.

“One of the most powerful things we witness in our community is what happens when someone is given belief and support to take the next step,” she said.

“For many women in business, the challenge isn’t drive or ability; it’s having access to practical support and a network that understands the realities of starting something from scratch.”

She said supporting women-led businesses often has a wider ripple effect across the local economy.

“When women are supported to build sustainable businesses, the impact is visible. They hire locally, collaborate with other operators, and take on leadership roles within the community.

“That consistent, long-term growth is exactly what our community banking model is designed to encourage.”

Community Bank Samford Senior Manager Mandy Bell said initiatives like this show how targeted funding can create lasting local impact.

What it means for Moreton Bay

Programs like this are designed to strengthen the region’s small business sector by supporting entrepreneurs who often operate without large support networks.

With women increasingly launching and leading businesses across the region, initiatives focused on leadership capability, mentorship and peer networks can help businesses grow sustainably while keeping jobs and investment within the local economy.