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.

The Department 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 businesses 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.
• 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: The Department 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.

What you need to do

Following a meeting with your local Aboriginal Business Development Manager you should:

• Write to the Department seeking assistance. This request must be posted on business letter head and include your ABN.
• Include copies of two years of annual financial reports
• Provide supporting documentation eg. quote from a business consultant, their CV and an outline of the service to be provided, or information on trade show you seek to attend.
• Identify key performance indicators to be achieved by accessing this business support.

The business activity must not commence prior to Departmental approval. For trade shows Aboriginal business are required to write to the Department two (2) months prior to the date of the show.

Support for program assistance is NOT guaranteed. The Department considers and assesses applications based on eligibility criteria, outcomes to be achieved from support, funding available, and the number of times the business has been supported. The Department will advise you in writing of the outcome of your application.

Contact your local Aboriginal Business Development Manager to clarify any information or to seek further assistance.