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Gippsland's first nations businesses thrive at Deadly in Gippsland Expo, showcasing innovation and opportunity

The Deadly in Gippsland Business Expo highlighted thriving First Nations businesses, fostering connections, empowering entrepreneurs, and strengthening Aboriginal economic presence through procurement opportunities over two days.

By news@gippsland - 12th February 2025 - Back to News

From artists to tradies, traffic controllers to bushfood growers, First Nations businesses and entrepreneurs are thriving in Gippsland. And last year, Gippslanders got a taste of what these innovative businesses have to offer at the second annual Deadly in Gippsland First Nations Business Expo.

Deadly in Gippsland received funding from Latrobe City's $5 million Council Support Package, supporting First Nations businesses alongside community infrastructure, sports, arts, and economic development initiatives

First nations enterprise

The two-day event, organised by the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) with support from Kinaway and Many Rivers, was designed to connect, educate and empower First Nations businesspeople and raise their profile among potential buyers and procurers.

Rodney Short, Economic Development Manager at GLaWAC said, "Building on the success of last year's event, this was an opportunity to grow the experience to support the evolving needs of the Aboriginal businesses. Day one celebrated First Nations businesses thriving in Gunaikurnai Country, with 36 stalls featuring a broad range of services available to industry and the broader public."

Empoweing aboriginal businesses

Kelvin Moffatt, GLaWAC's Aboriginal Business Development Officer said, "Day two focused on equipping those businesses with the tools and resources to grow, while supporting aspiring entrepreneurs considering their own business ideas'. We had successful First Nations business people talk about how they got started, and their ongoing journeys."

"Meanwhile, the business owners could also showcase their products and services to potential buyers, making important connections. We also had an incredible network of people and companies attending, so it was great to see so many Aboriginal businesses building those relationships and opportunities with public and private industry players," he said.

Kelvin's statement highlights

The event reflected the strength of the local Aboriginal community, and how First Nations businesses are making their mark on the regional economy. Importantly, it was a time to celebrate and acknowledge both excellence and possibility.

"It provided people with a chance to feel proud of themselves and each other. Proud that they are contributing to the local economy, regional economy, and their own back pocket. It showed those who are newer to the scene that they can move towards business ownership. And that there were people in that room who could invest and help them down that path as well," he added.

Pictures from Regional Development Victoria website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com