INDIGENOUS owned and operated businesses are now eligible to apply for grants of up to $10,000 as part of a new State Government funding opportunity.
Northern Victoria upper house MP Jaclyn Symes said the Victorian Aboriginal Business Investment Program was designed to assist the growth and upskill of Aboriginal businesses.
“This is a major boost for First Nations businesses here in northern Victoria, providing much-needed support for them to grow and expand their businesses in the local community,” she said.
The funding could be used for training and accreditation, as well as mentorship, networking, marketing, or access to expert advisory services.
Businesses will also have the opportunity to apply for grants of up to $100,000 for the purchase of new assets, as well as the planning and delivering of business cases, conduction of studies, and specialist training.
Chair of the Victorian First Nations consultive group known as the Koori Caucus, Jason Mifsud, said it was important to close the economic gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians.
“We will see more Aboriginal people moving from welfare to wages, and from wages to wealth,” Mr Mifsud said.
“This shift will bring significant economic benefits back into the whole Victorian economy.”
Applications for the Victorian Aboriginal Business Investment Program will close on Friday, September 6 and for more information, including how to apply, can be found on the Business Victoria website.
