Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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Indigenous businesses from across the Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac regions will come together with local procurement representatives when the First Nations Business Expo returns to Mackay for its fifth year.
Held during Indigenous Business Month, the expo is designed to bring Indigenous suppliers and potential buyers together, while supporting collaboration, relationship building and future business opportunities.
The event provides a space for Indigenous businesses to showcase their work, raise their profile and connect with procurement bodies and other businesses. It also helps local procurement representatives better understand the businesses operating across the region and their capabilities, as well as procurement requirements.
Now in its fifth year, the growing expo highlights the role partnerships and community support can play in creating opportunities for First Nations businesses and supporting economic growth.
The expo will also allow businesses to identify areas where they may need further support, build their capacity and awareness, develop partnerships and establish potential future work prospects.
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Feedback from last year’s event described it as “An amazing showcase of the region’s indigenous capabilities” and “Very informative and helpful”.
Mackay and Region Aboriginal and Islander Development Association, better known as MARABISDA, will also be among the organisations represented at the event. The organisation works alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, children and carers, providing culturally supportive spaces and helping people access services, resources and opportunities while strengthening connections to culture, family and community.
For visitors, the expo will provide a chance to meet local First Nations businesses and organisations and learn more about the services, products and capabilities available across the region.
The event forms part of Indigenous Business Month, held annually from October 1 to 31 to recognise and promote the strength, innovation and impact of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses across Australia.
The month highlights the contribution of Indigenous entrepreneurs and business leaders to Australia’s economy and cultural landscape, while encouraging conversations around economic self-determination and Indigenous business leadership.
The First Nations Business Expo will be held on Thursday 22nd October, from 10:30am to 2pm at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre’s North Foyer.
Attendance is free, with registration required.
This year’s expo is sponsored by Mackay Regional Council and North Queensland Bulk Ports.
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