Businesses to share in $3m investment program

First Nations businesses across Victoria will be able to create new jobs and boost regional economies thanks to new State government grants.

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.

“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,” Minister for Small Business and Employment Natalie Suleyman said.

“This investment will support First Nations businesses right across the state to create meaningful employment opportunities for years to come.”

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.

“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,” Minister

for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins said.

Koori Caucus Chair Jason Mifsud said investing in Aboriginal businesses was 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,” he said.

“By supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship, we are building a future where Aboriginal communities thrive and lead the way.”

For more information visit https://business.vic.gov.au/grants-and-programs/victorian-aboriginal-business-investment-program