Good Return receives funding from Visa Foundation to support Indigenous women entrepreneurs in Australia.

Good Return receives funding from Visa Foundation to support Indigenous women entrepreneurs in Australia.

A successful initiative for Indigenous women entrepreneurs in Australia is set to expand with a boost in funds from the Visa Foundation.  The initiative will build economic opportunity, and will be locally led by women who understand the unique approach to business in Indigenous culture.

Indigenous women in Australia face immense challenges when trying to establish and grow their own business.  Historical and gendered inequalities make it challenging to access capital, resources and the training required to participate in the economy and build financial security.

To tackle this issue, Australian not-for-profit Good Return joined with the Indigenous-led group Kimberley Jiyigas to support sustainable change within the Indigenous community.  The result was the Maganda Makers Business Club, an innovative collective where experienced Indigenous businesswomen guide, nurture and upskill emerging women entrepreneurs.   With the use of role models and provision of upskilling with shared resources, networks and connections, it enables personal and professional growth to create and sustain their businesses.

The Maganda Makers Business Club is led by Natasha Short, Managing Director of Kimberley Jiyigas, a Jaru Woman from the East Kimberley. Natasha brings her deep understanding of the social, cultural and economic dynamics of the Kimberley region and the women who live and work there.  “These are resourceful and talented women who are determined to be influencers of social change regionally, nationally and internationally,” Ms Short said.  “We now have almost 200 club members, who are running businesses in the arts, food and catering, hospitality, mining services and much more”.  Natasha’s leadership and vision are supported by an innovative collaboration with the founding members, which include Good Return and Sir Robert Menzies Foundation for Leadership.

Natasha Short, Managing Director of Kimberley Jiyigas

New funding from Visa Foundation will enable the club to expand into two new remote regions in Australia and reach even more women.  Additionally, the grant will support the establishment of a new initiative that provides financial assistance to club members to help grow their businesses.  These programs will enable more Indigenous business women to achieve empowerment through entrepreneurship.

“Visa Foundation is committed to supporting inclusive economies where individuals and communities can thrive” said Graham Macmillan, Visa Foundation President. “We believe in Good Return’s mission and are honoured to help support them as they uplift many ambitious and capable Indigenous women to realise their personal potential and be role models for future generations.”

Good Return brings over 20 years’ experience in building financial inclusion through localised approaches across Asia and the Pacific.  Good Return CEO Shane Nichols says “at Good Return we are passionate about a world where all people have access to resources and opportunities to improve their lives”.

“The Maganda Makers Business Club pilot has shown us that, even in a remote location with limited financial resources and infrastructure, strong and inspiring women can flourish and their families and communities have benefited from this.  We are excited about the next stage in this program and are immensely grateful to Visa Foundation for their support in making it happen.”