Indigenous Business Australia is joining forces with Export Finance Australia to empower First Nations companies to build their capacity to enter international markets.
Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Export Finance Australia (EFA) which will see both parties offer up financial assistance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander companies interested in exploring export and trade opportunities.
The MOU - which was overseen by Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney - will mean IBA and EFA can assist First Nations businesses when it comes to referring potential customers between organisations; developing relevant financial content for companies and share insights in financing developments and trends.
The partnership will also allow both parties to explore joint learning and develop marketing activities, including events.
IBA chief executive Kirsty Moore said her organisation was proud to collaborate with EFA.
"The MOU establishes a framework for discussion between IBA and EFA to work collaboratively to improve access to financial services and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people seeking to pursue export and trade opportunities," she said.
EFA managing director and CEO John Hopkins said the export credit agency which offered up businesses financial assistance to grow their companies internationally, was committed to helping First Nations companies.
He said both parties recognised the diversity and strength of First Nations businesses.
"Export Finance Australia is committed to doing more to support them," he said. "This partnership will enable EFA and IBA to combine our expertise to better reach and finance First Nations businesses to grow and realise their export potential."
