Ending economic racism: bringing together the Indigenous and business communities

Once an Indigenous start-up has completed the Incubator program, LEADIndigenous Limited then conducts a partnership program.

With all businesses, the first 12 months of operation are critical.

The Partnerships Program is a 12-month partner to the novice Indigenous entrepreneur. The partner is a qualified business professional who is available to answer any questions or to clarify any concerns the start-up may have. We explain contracts, time-critical obligations like the Business Activity Statement etc.

I urge the government and major bodies to use their economic resources to provide more professional opportunities to those companies that employ professional Indigenous staff. More work means increased Indigenous employment in the professional sectors of Corporate Australia. For instance, the National Women’s Council would be unlikely to award work to companies that do not employ women, as it should be.

I’m not here asking for additional funding for Indigenous business and professional employment opportunities, I’m merely advocating a better way of spending it.

While I continue to welcome the debate on Indigenous economic advancement, I hope that I’ve been able to give a model whereby we look to the inherent intelligence of Indigenous people as a foundation for business success.