In celebration of Indigenous Business Month 2024, the Queensland Local Buying Foundation is proud to announce sponsorship of the First Nations Trade & Talent Exhibition, under the Sponsorship of Business Awards, Conferences and Events funding category and as part of the LBF commitment to Indigenous Economic Development.
This event organised by Marabisda Inc. and set to take place in Mackay this October, is particularly significant as it celebrates the 10th anniversary of Indigenous Business Month in Australia, which has been held annually since 2015.
This year’s theme, “Making Our Mark,” aims to inspire the next generation of First Nations business leaders, highlighting the contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as producers, doers, and creators. The First Nations Trade & Talent Exhibition will serve as a platform to promote and support local First Nation businesses from the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsundays regions, allowing them to showcase their products and services.
The First Nations Trade & Talent Exhibition is expected to attract around 30-40 First Nations businesses from the region, providing them with an invaluable platform to increase their visibility, raise their profiles, and explore new revenue-generating opportunities through sales and contract procurement. The exhibition will feature a Welcome to Country ceremony and performances by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dancers, setting a culturally rich tone for the day. An Indigenous business exhibition will facilitate networking opportunities between local First Nation business owners and potential buyers, and a panel discussion featuring local Indigenous business owners will provide insights into best business practices. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in workshops designed to enhance business capabilities, including a Capability Statement Workshop and a Budgeting Workshop. These workshops will help entrepreneurs and business leaders refine key business skills such as creating capability statements—an essential tool for business growth.
By fostering connections between First Nations businesses and broader industry, the event will contribute to the growth and success of Indigenous entrepreneurs in the region. With Indigenous Business Month’s focus on making an impact, the First Nations Trade & Talent Exhibition is sure to leave a lasting mark on Mackay, Isaac, and the Whitsunday communities.
Kelly Cooke, C-Res Indigenous Business Development Principal commented, “We are deeply honoured to support the First Nations Trade & Talent Exhibition. We believe that by investing in Indigenous businesses, we contribute to a stronger, more vibrant economy for everyone. By creating opportunities for networking, learning, and collaboration, we are empowering the next generation of Indigenous business leaders to make their mark. By supporting and promoting events like the First Nations Trade & Talent Exhibition, we help create a space where Indigenous businesses can thrive, share their stories, and expand their networks. Together, we can ensure that Indigenous voices are heard, respected, and celebrated.”
More information and ticket links can be found on our Events page.