Funding Indigenous Entrepreneurs and Startups Across Australia

Gordon Cole, Nilesh Makwana, Rob Barton, Peter Rossdeutscher, Jahna Cedar, Kent Matla, Morgan Coleman, Wilson Tucker MLC, Alisha Geary, Jaynaya Winmar, Leslie Delaforce, Amanda Healy

The Blak Angels Investment Network was launched this week. By injecting capital and private investment into First Nations businesses, this network aims to overcome a major hurdle in scaling operations within the opportunity for Indigenous startup sector.

This nationwide program leverages the expertise of successful Indigenous business owners, who have joined forces to fund early-stage and high-growth companies. Attending the launch event, we were thrilled to witness how this network will directly support Indigenous entrepreneurship through angel investments. 

The event speakers emphasized the significance of inclusive pathways for all Australians. Leslie Delaforce, a champion for the Indigenous startup sector, highlighted the network's ambitious goal of creating inter-generational wealth through entrepreneurial success. He also noted that Aboriginal businesses are up to 100 times more likely to employ Aboriginal Australians, however, they face unique challenges like limited access to capital and business networks.

Morgan Coleman, in his address, underscored the network's dedication to providing a supportive hand-up for Indigenous excellence. This was exemplified by the inclusion of ten highly accomplished Indigenous entrepreneurs into the angel network; Amanda Healy, Alisha Geary, Jaynaya Winmar, Jerome Cubillo, Kent Matla, Gordon Cole, Jahna Cedar OAM, Jake Berthelot, Carol Vale and Darryl Lyons. Each are well known for their remarkable contributions in business and community.

Kent Matla emphasized the importance of understanding the investment landscape, being investment-ready, and learning from the successes of others. By embracing these principles, Indigenous entrepreneurs can position themselves for tremendous growth and success, leading to long-term economic empowerment.

Jahna Cedar keenly highlighted that the network aims to align values, overcome investor biases, and bridge the geographical gap between entrepreneurs and decision-makers. She also emphasized the competitive advantage that comes from integrating culture and understanding into every aspect of a business.

The Blak Angels Investment Network aims to tackle the startup capital divide, possible the most significant barrier to broader success. This aligns perfectly with the mission of First Nations X and the many other fantastic initiatives across Australia focusing on complementary goals. Together, we will build a stronger and more equitable entrepreneurial landscape for First Nations startups and businesses.