The future of Tasmania's Palawa Business Hub has been secured following a multi-year funding commitment from the state's government.
Announced last week, funding via the Tasmanian Government will support the Hub's activity for the next four years.
Described as Tasmania's first Aboriginal-led, fit-for-purpose one-stop shop designed to empower Aboriginal business owners and Indigenous people in Tasmania to connect, grow, and succeed in business, the Hub says is it is dedicated to improving economic opportunities for Aboriginal people and supporting the growth of Aboriginal businesses across the state.
Since its establishment last year, the Hub has strengthened Aboriginal economic participation in Tasmania by connecting Aboriginal businesses with government, industry, and support services, provided culturally grounded business advice and mentoring, and promoted Aboriginal business visibility through statewide events, workshops, and showcases.
Coinciding with Aboriginal Business Month, The Hub's Aboriginal Business Showcase was held in Hobart in October where co-founder Leah Cameron (Brown) told National Indigenous Times Tasmanian-based Indigenous businesses needed the support of the Hub "because we're not generally part of the national dialog".
"We don't have an Indigenous procurement policy here, there's no existing chamber, there's no set spends for state government," she said.
"So for me, it's like, 'hang on, putting our hand up. We need this. We need to be part of this journey', because it is having this huge impact.
"And for me as well, I just thought [there's] so many opportunities. Lutruwita/Tasmania is incredibly popular. We need to start riding this wave. We don't want to be left behind."
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Ms Cameron (Brown) said the announcement marks a significant step forward for Aboriginal economic empowerment in Tasmania.
"This funding gives us the foundation we need to keep building opportunities for our mob in business from start-ups and emerging entrepreneurs to established Aboriginal-owned enterprises," she said.
"The Palawa Business Hub exists to strengthen self-determination through economic independence, and this support from the Tasmanian Government recognises the vital role Aboriginal businesses play in Tasmania's economy and community."
The funding commitment will support the Hub to expand its programs and services, including: business development and mentoring support for Aboriginal entrepreneurs, training and education workshops across regions, networking and procurement events connecting Aboriginal businesses with buyers and industry, culturally safe support for Aboriginal people exploring business opportunities, and increased visibility and promotion of Aboriginal business success stories.
The Hub said it will continue to operate as a central point of contact for Aboriginal businesses, ensuring all support remains Aboriginal-led, culturally appropriate, and community-driven.

"We are committed to creating meaningful, long-term pathways for Aboriginal people to thrive in business and contribute to Tasmania's growing economy," Palawa Business Hub co-founder and business development manager, Sara Maynard, said.
"This partnership with the Tasmanian Government demonstrates that investing in Aboriginal business is investing in the future of Lutruwita/ Tasmania.
"By supporting Aboriginal owned businesses, we are not only creating jobs and local investment, but we are also celebrating culture, innovation, and the ongoing strength of our people."
The Palawa Business Hub's Aboriginal Business Directory can be found online.