New IBA-backed entrepreneur programs for First Nations women launches in Kimberley

A Broome-based innovation hub and think tank that supports female First Nations entrepreneurs has formed a collaboration with Indigenous Business Australia to deliver economic growth programs and business support across the Kimberley. Make It Happen HQ, powered by the Cultural Intelligence Project, will be delivering three business development programs and a one-on-one mentoring program in partnership with IBA primarily in Broome and Fitzroy Crossing. In a region with traditionally minimal access to business initiatives, the programs aim to provide culturally appropriate professional development opportunities to participants and build the ‘Kimberley’s entrepreneurship ecosystem’. MIHHQ and CIP has supported 34 First Nations entrepreneurs and 15 businesses since its inception in 2015, with founder Adele Peek, a Yawuru and Bunuba woman, excited to push the programs with the IBA to the Kimberley. “Following years of advocacy and our best practice co-design process, we are excited to be bringing our programs to Fitzroy Crossing and Broome in partnership with IBA,” she said. “As a grassroots, First Nation, female-led initiative, it is truly great to see that our bespoke solution with a proven track record has been recognised by the likes of IBA, who possess the funding we need to help roll out these much-needed programs.” The programs will support Indigenous women with their commerce capabilities, improve their financial knowledge and literacy, as well as the tools and skills needed in communities that record a 37 per cent lower rate of Indigenous employment. Program participant Helen Ockerby said the program brought relevant content to support her business growth at a level she could understand after previously struggling to understand, interact or source the right support. “These programs help First Nations women gain valuable skills and attributes to ensure we get to where we want to be,” she said. “For me, this was about growing the management side of things. “Far too long we have sat in the background with so much knowledge; being able to harness this knowledge into business outcomes is just fantastic. It’s a need that has little to no representation in the region as well as on a national scale. “It’s really important to be present and seen so the future generation can see anything is achievable if you grasp great opportunities and believe in yourself.” IBA director of community and customer experience Stella de Cos, a Southern Arrernte woman, said the program will drive positive changes for First Nations women. “Women are the strongest pillars of many of our First Nations communities,” she said. “Empowering them builds opportunities to continue the positive impact and change they drive.”