A new cohort Aboriginal tourism businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs from across the Northern Territory are set to take part in this year's NT Aboriginal Tourism Business Accelerator Program.
The third round of the program supports the growth of new and innovative NT-based Aboriginal tourism products and experiences.
Nineteen program participants are set to receive business and tourism training through the program with hands-on practical skills, access to experienced business advisors, a personal business coach, and introductions to key industry networks.
The Northern Territory government said the program aims to expand the Territory's rich and diverse Aboriginal tourism offerings and strengthen visitor experiences which encourage travellers to stay longer while exploring the NT.
NT Department of Tourism and Hospitality Director Aboriginal Tourism, Kym Nolan, said the program is designed to support Aboriginal businesses in offering effective product and service delivery throughout the Territory.
"The NT Aboriginal Tourism Accelerator Program supports Aboriginal businesses to grow strong, sustainable tourism product and experiences that showcase cultures, create jobs and strengthen the Territory's visitor economy," Ms Nolan said.
Designed to strengthen the Territory's Aboriginal business economy, the program offers Aboriginal business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools, skills and support needed to grow sustainable tourism businesses and create new Aboriginal tourism product and experiences.
Program partners include the NT Department of Tourism and Hospitality and Indigenous Business Australia, with support of the Australian Government Strategic Indigenous Tourism Project funding program (SITP).
Indigenous Business Australia CEO David Knights said IBA is proud to continue supporting Aboriginal businesses and entrepreneurs to turn tourism aspirations into thriving enterprises.
"By providing tailored coaching, industry connections, and practical tools, this program strengthens the Territory's tourism sector and celebrates the depth and diversity of Aboriginal culture through authentic experiences," Mr Knights said.
Commencing in Mparntwe / Alice Springs last week, the program will support participants by offering monthly face-to-face week-long intensive workshops, which are set to be delivered to June 2026.
The program will culminate in a tourism product pitch to key tourism stakeholders and industry representatives, with participants to continue receiving one-on-one business coaching through to October 2026.
