The Aboriginal Business Development Program supports Indigenous people interested in starting or expanding an existing business.

The Mulyung Aboriginal Corporation used a grant to engage Bowman Advisory to develop a comprehensive business plan and financial modelling on several of their business operations.

The corporation, which represents the 70-80 people living at Nganambala, has signed agreements to provide workers through a labour hire model and to transition management of the creche from Catholic Care.

Director and former corporation chair Marie-Louise Sams says: “Through this funding we have also been able to do more governance training to help us keep growing strong foundations for Mulyung Aboriginal Corporation.”

Another Indigenous organisation, the Wanta Aboriginal Corporation used a grant to buy a shipping container, to sell coffee, toasted sandwiches and small baked goods prepared by students at school.

The aim is to teach students about the hospitality industry and provide training for them to work at the local café or create new businesses in the community.

Indi Drendel, who runs the Brighter Futures program for Wanta, says high school students aged from 13 work at the little cafe.

“Hopefully, it will set them up to work in cafes after they leave school if they wish,” she says.

For more information about the Aboriginal Business Development Program, email businessinfo@nt.gov.au or phone 1800 193 111