- Published:
- Friday 14 March 2025
First Nations businesses across the state will be creating new jobs and boosting regional economies thanks to new grants from the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Small Business and Employment Natalie Suleyman today announced more than 80 Victorian businesses will share in almost $3 million as part of the Victorian Aboriginal Business Investment Program.
Grants between $5,000 and $10,000 will be given to 60 businesses to be used for training, mentorship, networking, marketing, expert advisory services and accreditations.
Larger grants up to $100,000 will be given to more than 20 businesses to help them expand into new markets, complete building works and invest in developing their workforce.
The successful businesses come from a range of industries including tourism, manufacturing and environmental management.
The Victorian Aboriginal Business Investment Program is part of the Government’s work to achieve self-determination and boost local jobs and businesses in rural and regional Victoria.
Each business that receives funding through the program is at least 51 per cent owned and operated by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and has an economic connection to regional Victoria.
Successful businesses will have until 31 October 2025 to complete their projects.
For more information visit https://business.vic.gov.au/grants-and-programs/victorian-aboriginal-business-investment-program
Quotes attributable to Minister for Small Business and Employment Natalie Suleyman
“We’re backing First Nations businesses to grow their operations, upskill their staff, expand into new markets and create new local jobs – with those benefits flowing into regional economies across the state.”
“This investment will support First Nations businesses right across the state to create meaningful employment opportunities for years to come.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins
“When Aboriginal communities are given the tools to build and grow their businesses, we achieve better outcomes. That’s why we’re supporting First Nations businesses across Victoria to grow and thrive.”
Quotes attributable to Koori Caucus Chair Jason Mifsud
“Investing in Aboriginal businesses is not just an economic opportunity, it’s a pathway to empowering communities, creating sustainable jobs, and driving us toward achieving economic equality within a generation.”
“By supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship, we are building a future where Aboriginal communities thrive and lead the way.”