It's Indigenous Business Month and this October, National Indigenous Times is excited to bring back Friday Favs to highlight the success, rich culture and diversity of First Nations-owned and led businesses. Stay tuned each week for Mob-strong businesses.
Across the professional services sector, a variety of First Nations-owned and led businesses intertwine deep-rooted Indigenous knowledge with passion and profession.
Whether in law, digital services, finance, or consultancy, these firms are dedicated to creating positive impacts, driving change and addressing critical needs. In no particular order, we've highlighted a few.
Ngakkan Nyaagu || NGNY
Founded a decade ago by John Saulo and Liam Ridgeway, NGNY is an Aboriginal-owned and operated digital services agency that was originally established to deliver technology solutions and digital services to Aboriginal organisations with a view to improve transparency and skills transfer.
The agency offers a comprehensive range of services, including branding, graphic design, website development and custom mobile app solutions.
Employing a design approach that is both creative and user-centred, NGNY works alongside its clients to better understand how technology and digital solutions can be utilised to improve better outcomes and engagement with Mob.
Speaking to the Indigenous Business Review, Saulo explained that NGNY, short for Ngakkan Nyaagu, which means 'to look and to see' in the Wergaia and Gumbaynggirr languages, is an important aspect of the founders vision for the business.
"That's the core value for NGNY that Liam and Myself have strived to build into the business. We are a business dedicated to helping our clients to be seen and to utilise technology and digital solutions to connect with their clientele, customer base and communities," Mr Saulo said.
"That's the underlying vision and mission of NGNY.
We are a business dedicated to helping our clients be seen and utilise technology and digital solutions to connect with their clientele, customer base and community members. That's truly at our core."
AMK Law
Setting out on a mission in 2014 to provide practical legal solutions that make a genuine impact, Matthew Karakoulakis, founder of AMK Law and descendant of the Kokatha and Narungga people, has always aimed to deliver tailored solutions for each client's unique needs.
With a particular focus on supporting First Nations communities, the firm offers a range of legal services, including commercial law, business establishment and dispute resolution, alongside mediation and negotiation assistance.
Additionally, training is provided through the BEiNG Governance Program, while the "BaM" Black Cladding Awareness Masterclass educates on ethical procurement.
Looking ahead, the firm is dedicated to a future where Indigenous governance, business and cultural knowledge are fully integrated into the broader Australian business and legal environment.
Speaking to IBR Karakoulakis relayed the firms mission.
"We are committed to empowering the next generation of First Nations leaders through our services and remain focused on helping businesses succeed while making a positive and lasting impact on the community," Mr Karakoulakis said.
IPS Management Consultants
Established in 2015, IPS Management Consultants (IPS) is an independent, First Nations-owned consultancy that delivers innovative services across Australia.
The firm provides strategic consulting solutions to federal and state governments, large corporations, small businesses and communities.
As a majority female-owned, small to medium enterprise, IPS is dedicated to creating meaningful pathways for First Nations people, businesses and communities.
Each project is aimed at generating impactful, life-changing social outcomes, reflecting IPS's vision of 'Creating Better Futures'.
With more than 70 staff, the firm proudly celebrates its 9th birthday this October during Indigenous Business Month, marking nearly a decade of success and meaningful impact.
Speaking to IBR, proud Noongar Wardandi woman and IPS executive director and First Nations advisory lead Danie Zappa said empowering First Nations people and communities is a core purpose of IPS.
"At IPS, our dedication to building the capacity of First Nations enterprises and individuals fosters growth and empowerment through collaboration with government and corporate partners," Ms Zappa said.
Indigenous Wealth
Founded by proud Aboriginal man Bradley Gimbert, who has ancestral ties to the Wailwan and Barkindji peoples, Indigenous Wealth is an Indigenous-owned wealth consultancy firm specialising in property, finance and superannuation services.
With a vision of building wealth for First Nations communities across Australia, the firm guides clients in connecting with the right organisations.
To date, Indigenous Wealth has facilitated $150 million worth of property transactions nationwide and is dedicated to creating more Aboriginal millionaires, with a target of increasing this number to over 100 by 2025.
Murawin
Established in 2014 by proud Dungutti woman Carol Vale and her partner Greg, Murawin is an Indigenous-owned and operated consultancy known for its deep commitment to community and cultural engagement.
Guided by its culturally safe Barri Marruma methodology, Murawin places Indigenous Country, communities, and collaborative co-design at the heart of every project.
This approach ensures that Indigenous voices are actively involved throughout research, evaluation and project implementation, leading to culturally appropriate and sustainable outcomes.
Murawin's expertise spans strategic advice, evaluation, research and communications, with a focus on empowering First Nations people and creating meaningful change.