THE Small Business Development Corporation has heralded the launch of the state government’s online directory, which promotes businesses owned and operated by people under the age of 35. The u35 Business Directory is designed to assist the increasing number of small business operators in the state, which is approaching 200,000, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Youth Minister Ljiljanna Ravlich said the site offered free promotion, networking and information about small-to-medium enterprises. The online resource was designed by North Perth-based graphics and digital media designer Loaded Studios, whose owners, Paul Abrahams and Heath Properjohn are under 35. SBDC acting executive director of community engagement, Fiona Lander, said the resource was the first of its kind in WA. The Business Directory has already assisted husband and wife team Matt and Mara Allan, who started niche beer tour operator The Brewers Dray in 2007. Operating within the Perth, Fremantle and Swan Valley regions, the business has used the website to promote upcoming tours and inform clients about booking information. Claremont-based beauty therapist Devon Court Beauty, Northbridge-based fashion retailer Red Stripe Clothing, and Padbury-based wedding photography service Scene the Light are others to use the website.