Support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in business

A range of support is available for the growing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander business sector to overcome business challenges.

Learn more about the wide range of contacts and resources available for Indigenous businesses.

Government grants and funding for small businesses

The Queensland Government provides a wide range of grants and funding programs for small businesses.

Arts Queensland's First Nations Arts Business Grants provide funding of up to $10,000 to strengthen business skills and capacity of First Nations artists and arts and cultural businesses and organisations. Find out more about the grants, including eligibility and how to apply.

There are many funding opportunities available for First Nations small businesses.

Check if you can apply for other government grants and funding programs.

Mentoring and networking opportunities

Mentoring and networking programs, including Mentoring for Growth, TAFE Queensland's One Business program and the Australian Small Business Advisory Services (ASBAS), provide opportunities for you to build, develop and grow your business.

Read more about business mentoring and networking in business.

One Business phone line

TAFE Queensland's One Business resource line—0460 285 352, available Monday to Friday—links First Nations business intenders, owners, operators and sub-contractors to relevant government (and other) services to assist them to build business capacity and capability. Services may include:

• coaching and mentoring
• providing links to resources and tools
• referrals to other relevant support programs.

This service is funded as part of Queensland Government's Paving the Way – the First Nations Training Strategy.

Workshops and events

Regularly check the Business Queensland events calendar for current events, forums, workshops and seminars.

Contact us

For more information, email info@desbt.qld.gov.au.

Also consider...

• Learn about employing Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples in your business.
• Register for free business mentoring through the Mentoring for Growth program.
• Subscribe to our Business Queensland Connect newsletter and follow Business Queensland on Facebook to find out more about events and programs to support your business.
• Find out how to prepare and write a grant application.