STARTING a new small business venture is tough for anyone, but for migrants or refugees it can be even harder.

Mercy Community Services in partnership with TAFE Queensland South West and the Toowoomba and Warwick Chambers of Commerce and Industry are offering two Mi Start Migrant Business expos which provide migrants with skills to develop their own small business start-ups.

Mi Start project spokeswoman Sue Hamlet said language and cultural issues added to the stress of new businesses, and that migrants were prepared to work hard for their successes.

"This workshop will help remove possible barriers and equip potential business owners with skills, strategies and contacts that will help them succeed," she said.

"They will hear from other migrants who have businesses in this region, and meet many local organisations who can support them along the start up journey and beyond. It's very hands on and we can provide interpreters if needed."

The Mi Start team is encouraging people to come along to the free expo and learn all they need to know to start, grow and manage their own small business.

The Mi Start Southern Downs Migrant Business StartUP will be held on Thursday, March 26 from 9am - 2.45pm at the TAFE Warwick Campus.

For those who can't make the Warwick expo, an earlier event will be held at the TAFE Toowoomba campus on Thursday, March 12 from 9am - 2.45pm.

Registration is free and only open to members of migrant communities interested in setting up a small business, a buffet lunch will be provided and a bus from Stanthorpe may be provided if needed.

To register for either of the workshops please email david.barton@mercycs. org.au or ring Mercy Community Services on 4617 7600 and ask for a registration form.

For enquiries about the Warwick workshop please contact Sue Hamlet on 0427 619 381.