Start-up companies and small businesses in Australia and New Zealand will have the opportunity to enter Facebook's small business accelerator programme.

Twelve companies will be chosen to participate in a workshop for two days on how businesses can utilise Facebook to generate growth. Companies selected for the accelerator programme will be given free Facebook credits to use as they please and three months of continuous support from the Facebook team.

Facebook Small Business Manager for Australia and New Zealand Nick Bowditch said there is a large number of Australians using Facebook. Companies can use this to their advantage to establish a strong online presence on Facebook and take part in local conversations.

Bowditch said in a statement that many small businesses are using Facebook to do great things. The Facebook team is committed to help Australian and New Zealand businesses to unlock opportunities available on the social network.

Findings of the Sensis 2013 Yellow Social Media Report in May 2013 revealed that the number of small Australian businesses with online presence have increased, but the country is still behind when the number of consumers on social networks.

The social media report indicated 30 per cent of small businesses in Australia and 47 per cent of medium-sized businesses have an online presence. Despite the increase in percentage, the figures are still below the 65 per cent of Australians who use Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Facebook's accelerator program shows all small and medium enterprises must take advantage of digital opportunities even if it's just maintaining an online presence, according to Kelly Brough, Sensis executive general manager.

Ms Bowditch said Facebook will support businesses in the accelerator program by "fast-tracking their path to success" on the social network.

Facebook data said there are approximately 16 million companies that use Facebook Pages to connect with target customers and fans.

The Facebook accelerator program is open to small businesses in New Zealand and Australia with a Facebook Page. Facebook will choose businesses that stand out and those that know the importance of social media presence. The chosen businesses should be ready to take their knowledge of social media to the next level.

Deadline of applications will be on Aug 12 and winners will be announced on Aug 19, 2013.