180 Indigenous female business owners and entrepreneurs attended the Inaugural IBA Strong Women Strong Business Conference.
Project implemented: May 2018
Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision making
Indigenous female entrepreneurs are underrepresented in Australia; research indicates many lack confidence and networks.
Develop survey around the needs and challenges of Indigenous women entrepreneurs followed by regional/remote consultations
Analysis of research results and development of product or service in response to gaps and needs
Contracting an events coordinator, engaging a panel of speakers, promotion of event, registrations, travel and accommodation
Development of survey seeking feedback from participants and establishment of a Facebook group to maintain networks
Development of a digital platform for Indigenous women interested in business start-up or in a transition or growth phase nee
Delivered a two day conference with 180 participants in Adelaide.
Conference was the first of its kind in Australia
Positive impact on the confidence of women who attended the conference
Highlighted female role models in various industries
Indigenous business women unanimously called for an opportunity to connect, network and learn from other Indigenous business women about overcoming constraints and pursuing opportunities. Research indicated that there has never been a conference specifically on business issues for Indigenous women in Australia.
Organised by Indigenous Business Australia (IBA), this unique Conference featured only female speakers, MCs and presenters.
Women representing established businesses and startups, as well as women with business ideas looking to get off the ground, across many different types of businesses, and from every state and territory, were in attendance.
The women in attendance come from diverse sectors mining, construction, recruitment, IT, bush medicine, professional services, security, manufacturing, media and communications, fashion, creative industries, tourism, hospitality and more.
To date, Indigenous business women make up 34% of IBA’s customer base in the Business Solutions program.