More than 500 delegates from across the world are in Melbourne this week to celebrate and further support Indigenous entrepreneurship.
Minister for Small Business and Employment Natalie Suleyman spoke at the 16th annual World Indigenous Business Forum (WIBF 2025), highlighting the significance of the event in showcasing how Indigenous leadership and enterprise is thriving in Victoria.
Victoria is proud to host and sponsor WIBF 2025 which will welcome representatives from more than 14 countries as well as delegates and businesses from around Australia.
The forum provides leaders from across business, government, academia and industry an opportunity to share insights and develop strategies that drive empowerment for Indigenous communities.
WIBF 2025 comes shortly after First Nations Victorians promoted their strengths and talents at the World Expo 2025 in Japan in August.
The Allan Labor Government supported First Nations people to attend the Expo which showcases Indigenous cultures and contributions to international relationships. Ten representatives from six Aboriginal businesses and Traditional Owner Corporations took part.
Helping Aboriginal businesses to start, grow and compete locally and globally is aligned to the Yuma Yirramboi (Invest in Tomorrow) Strategy and key for achieving economic parity for Aboriginal Victorians within a generation.
As stated by Minister for Small Business and Employment Natalie Suleyman
"The 16th World Indigenous Business Forum 2025 brings together First Nations businesses and leaders from around the world to network, collaborate and advance Indigenous economic growth."
"Together, we're building stronger trade links, more investment, and more jobs - with First Nations communities."
As stated by Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins
"Victoria is proud to be a place where First Nations businesses thrive. Hosting the World Indigenous Business Forum is our chance to highlight the innovation and leadership of First Nations businesses."
As stated by Kinaway Chamber of Commerce Victoria Acting CEO Alex Martins
"The World Indigenous Business Forum reflects what Kinaway stands for: partnership, opportunity and community. It is a privilege to bring global Indigenous leaders together here in Victoria to share knowledge and inspire progress."
