Helping Indigenous Australian entrepreneurs access funding and grow their impact.
Starting or growing a business is a bold step — and for Indigenous Australians, it also represents a powerful path toward self-determination and community development. But navigating the world of grants can be confusing. That’s where we come in.
At Grant Prose, we specialise in helping Indigenous-owned sole traders, micro, and small businesses tap into the right grant opportunities. In this post, we explore five standout grant programs in 2025 that could help take your business to the next level.
1. Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) – Business Development and Assistance Program
Best for: Start-ups and early-stage businesses
Funding: Business support and loans (up to $100,000)
Deadline: Ongoing
The IBA offers tailored support to Indigenous Australians through its Business Development and Assistance Program. Whether you’re just starting out or growing your business, you can access:
- Business advice and mentoring
- Support with business planning
- Assistance in accessing affordable finance
📍 Why it matters: The IBA is Indigenous-led and understands the unique challenges and opportunities Indigenous businesses face.
2. Small Business Grants – State and Territory Programs
Best for: Micro and small business owners in specific regions
Funding: Varies by state (e.g. $5,000–$20,000)
Deadline: Varies throughout the year
Each Australian state and territory offers small business grants that can be used for:
- Digital transformation
- Hiring and training staff
- Expanding operations
We recommend checking programs like:
- NSW Small Business Grants
- VIC Business Support Fund
- QLD Business Basics Grants
📍 Tip: You’ll need a solid business plan and budget. We can help with that.
3. Indigenous Entrepreneurs Fund (IEF)
Best for: Indigenous businesses seeking equipment or assets
Funding: Equipment purchase and asset upgrades
Deadline: Varies; typically opens annually
The IEF is designed to boost economic participation by helping Indigenous businesses purchase necessary equipment, like:
- Machinery for construction or agriculture
- Commercial kitchen or manufacturing tools
- IT equipment for service-based businesses
📍 Grant Prose Tip: Applications are competitive — so make sure your business case is strong and culturally grounded.
4. New Business Assistance with NEIS (Self-Employment Assistance)
Best for: Sole traders just starting out
Funding: Training, mentoring, and income support
Deadline: Open year-round
This federally funded program is not a cash grant — but it offers free business training, ongoing mentorship, and income support for up to 39 weeks while you establish your business.
📍 Best suited for: Those with a solid idea but who need guidance in planning and launching successfully.
5. City or Local Government Microgrants
Best for: Community-impact businesses and local services
Funding: $1,000 – $10,000
Deadline: Local councils usually offer rounds 1–2 times per year
Don’t overlook your local government. Many councils in metro and regional areas offer small business grants with simplified applications. These are ideal for:
- Pop-up markets
- Mobile services (hair, beauty, food trucks)
- Community workshops or events
📍 Why apply? These grants often prioritise Indigenous, women-led, and culturally diverse businesses.
💡 Need Help Applying?
Applying for grants is more than filling out forms — you need a compelling story, clear financials, and a deep understanding of what funders want.
At Grant Prose, we:
- Write winning grant applications
- Support Indigenous-owned businesses with strategy and storytelling
- Offer end-to-end support so you can focus on running your business
👉 Contact us today for a free consultation.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Grants can change the trajectory of your business — but only if you know where to look and how to apply.
Let 2025 be the year you stop missing out on opportunities. With the right partner (that’s us!), you can access the funding you deserve.
