Enterprise and Training Company Limited (ETC), the providers of the state government's Small Biz Connect program in the Illawarra, offered more than $10,000 worth of free business advice, mentoring and training as part of the Energise Shellharbour Village project.

Shellharbour Mayor Marianne Saliba launched the project with Small Biz Connect director Wayne Gates (in place of the NSW Commissioner of Small Business).

ETC's Illawarra business co-ordinator Annelies Voorthuis said the purpose of the project was to empower small businesses through sustainable economic change.

"We want to help small business operators in Shellharbour Village grow their business by improving their financial performance, planning and marketing," Ms Voorthuis said.

"During Energise Shellharbour Village our team of experienced business consultants are delivering a free workshop, offering free business health checks and raising awareness generally about the business support services available to small businesses in the Illawarra."

Shellharbour Mayor Marianne Saliba said small businesses in Shellharbour were always looking for new opportunities to attract customers to the village.

"Council work closely with the state government to provide these services to the local business community and this is a great opportunity for people to meet with the commissioner and discuss any concerns or matters they wish," Cr Saliba said.

Shellharbour Village Chamber of Commerce president Pam Kane said members had embraced the project and are enthusiastic about looking at new opportunities to grow the village.

"Shellharbour Village Chamber of Commerce is excited to be working with the Illawarra Small Biz Connect team on this important project designed to revitalise businesses in the village," Ms Kane said.

"I'm excited to see existing small businesses being offered help and encourage the entire community to get involved.

"Hopefully over time the village will become a thriving tourist destination."