Grants & funding

The NSW Government supports Aboriginal economic development across the State by helping Aboriginal businesses to plan for the successful growth and development of their commercial enterprises.

NSW Trade & Investment offers a range of services to meet the needs of Aboriginal enterprises. These services are delivered through a network of experienced Aboriginal Business Development staff across NSW. They provide guidance in accessing business support services.

Aboriginal Business Development Services include:-

• getting started in business. Aboriginal people interested in starting a business can also access free business information from a Business Advisory Service. 
• managing and growing a business 
• business assistance 
• seminars/workshops and networking opportunities. 
• Aboriginal people that have been operating a business for two years or more can access specialised business services to help build their enterprise. This assistance allows the business operator to work with a specialised business consultant to implement and develop growth strategies, achieve business goals, get over a business hurdle, develop a marketing plan, or design a website. 
• assistance to enter export markets and participate in local or international industry trade shows. Trade shows provide businesses with an opportunity to exhibit products to new buyers and access new markets. 
• other business programs: Industry & Investment NSW offers a wide range of business support programs, services and business workshops. Aboriginal businesses are encouraged to examine all business programs for which they may be eligible.

How to access Aboriginal business support programs

Aboriginal businesses wishing to access business support programs need to contact their local Aboriginal Business Development Manager who will explain what is required. All Aboriginal businesses must meet the eligibility criteria.

For more information please visit the Aboriginal Business page.

The NSW Government is committed to achieving sustainable economic outcomes for Aboriginal people and their communities, by encouraging business participation and opportunities.

A number of business tools on the SmallBiz website have been developed by the Department of Trade and Investment to help Aboriginal people build and sustain business operations. These include:

• A guide to developing Aboriginal business
• Aboriginal Business Directory