First Nations social enterprises looking to strengthen their capability, expand their operations and increase their social and economic impact are encouraged to explore the Social Enterprise Development Initiative (SEDI) First Nations Grants program.
Funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services and delivered by Impact Investing Australia in partnership with Malu Pty Ltd, the program recognises the important role First Nations enterprises play in creating employment opportunities, increasing economic participation and delivering positive outcomes for communities.
Grants of between $50,000 and $120,000 are available to support capability-building activities that help enterprises grow their impact and achieve their long-term goals.
Funding can be used to purchase services from capability providers and specialist businesses, including:
Financial and accounting services
Evaluation and impact measurement
Business consulting and strategic planning
Legal and governance advice
Other capability-building support services
Up to 20% of grant funding may also be used to cover internal costs associated with purchasing and implementing these services.
The grants are available to eligible First Nations social enterprises that are:
Indigenous-owned and controlled organisations operating in Australia
Trading enterprises delivering social benefit and positive community outcomes
Generating annual revenue of more than $50,000, including at least $35,000 in trading revenue
Seeking support to scale their impact, strengthen operations or diversify commercial activities
The program supports enterprises working across a range of social outcome areas, including employment, education, community development and other initiatives that improve social and economic outcomes for First Nations communities and Australians.