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First Nations businesses receive funding boost

Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes has announced a new Victorian Aboriginal Business Investment Program. Photo: AAP/James Ross

The Victorian Government is supporting First Nations businesses in Northern Victoria to grow and upskill with the announcement of the new Victorian Aboriginal Business Investment Program.

Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes has announced the new program as part of the Labor Government’s $10 million package to support First Nations businesses.

Aboriginal owned and operated businesses can apply for funding to support and expand their businesses, with grants of up to $10,000 available to businesses for training and accreditation, mentorship, networking, marketing and access to expert advisory services.

“This is a major boost for First Nations businesses here in Northern Vic - providing much needed support for them to grow and expand their businesses in the local community,” Ms Symes said.

Businesses are also able to apply for grants of up to $100,000 for purchasing new assets, planning and delivering business cases, conducting studies and specialist training.

The initiative is part of the Government’s commitment to making rural and regional Victoria an even better place to live, work, stay and play and boosting local jobs and businesses in every corner of our state.

The $10 million package also includes support for seven Traditional Owner Corporations in regional Victoria - this will help to establish economic hubs where Aboriginal businesses can connect, access support and showcase their work.

These initiatives will support communities to focus on connection to culture and Country and build on the Victorian Government’s commitment to self-determination and economic inclusion and prosperity.

Applications for the Victorian Aboriginal Business Investment Program close on Friday, September 6.

To learn more and to apply, visit business.vic.gov.au/aboriginal-business-grants/