Congratulations to the National Indigenous Times on the launch of this new voice for First Nations businesses.

Partnerships that promote the capability, excellence and values of our suppliers and entrepreneurs to a wide audience both in Australia and internationally are very much needed and welcomed.

The Indigenous business sector is growing strongly. Its contribution to the economy, jobs growth, and positive social impact, is increasingly acknowledged by a broad cross section of government, business and community interests.

This year, Supply Nation celebrates a significant milestone as we mark our 15-year anniversary.

We will also record this year over 850 member organisations, and last year, we facilitated $4.1billion worth of spend into Indigenous businesses.

Our members are committed to supplier diversity and procurement from Indigenous-owned businesses.

In July, we added our 5000th business to our Indigenous Business Direct database, accessible to everyone looking to source products and services from verified Indigenous-owned businesses.

Opportunities for greater international engagement are also significant and we currently have programs in place to develop strong collaboration with First Nations organisations in the United States, Canada and New Zealand.

Next year we launch a strategy to increase commercial engagement with Southeast Asia markets.

In collaboration with DFAT and Austrade we have recently released a Report that provides new information on Indigenous businesses creating success in international markets.

Supply Nation has a legacy that we can all be proud of, and that will be on show at our annual tradeshow, Connect, this year in Meanjin (Brisbane) as we help to position businesses to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the Olympic Games in 2032.

And, as we look to meet these opportunities and challenges of the future, what legacy will we leave at the conclusion of the next 15 years?

While the future remains unwritten and stories yet to unfold, we can and must enhance the potential of every Indigenous Australian through economic empowerment.

Commitment to a values-based approach to business, the importance of sustainability and protection of natural assets are increasingly recognised as fundamental to future economic growth.

As we look to a world that places increasing importance on environment, social and governance issues (ESG), Indigenous knowledge must be incorporated into decisions that impact economic growth. This is particularly relevant when we look to grow our clean energy and renewables sector as well as sustainable tourism in regional and sensitive natural environments.

The values and culture of our business leaders equip us well to meet future challenges and forge success.

Despite numerous and recent setbacks, I am optimistic that given the strength of our resolve and determination, Indigenous businesses will have significant, critical and positive impact on shaping a successful economy over the next 15 years to the benefit of all Australians.

It will require us all to work together, and I look forward to that.

Kate Russell is the Chief Executive Officer of Supply Nation.