The Boorloo Convention Centre came alive as it hosted the Indigenous Business Trade Fair, organised by Supply Nation, bringing together more than 80 small and emerging Indigenous-owned businesses on Wednesday.

The event provided a platform for businesses from a diverse range of industries to network, share ideas, and build connections within the community.

Proudly held on the lands of the Whadjuk Noongar people, the trade fair showcased the strength and innovation of Western Australia's Indigenous business sector.

One participant, Indigivision, is a company committed to caring for Country and supporting others in achieving a balance between land use, development, and land care through advanced drone technologies.

Lance Morich, supported by Samuel Vale, shared how his upbringing shaped the company's vision, he was always taught to listen to the Djirda (birds), as they would guide and share wisdom. This cultural teaching is now reflected in Indigivision's drone fleet, with each drone named after significant birds: Warlitj (Eagle), Karrak (Black Cockatoo), and Djidi Djidi (Willy Wagtail).

Nibble Sea Dragon Consulting chief executive and Indigivision director, Tiffiny Vale, reflected on their vision as an Aboriginal family.

"As an Aboriginal family, we wanted to grow the wealth of our family and our community," she said.

"We aim to work with other Aboriginal organisations and businesses to diversify the Indigenous economy.

"The cultural influence is about using some of our most important assets—our Aboriginal land, culture, and people—as resources to support those addressing humanitarian needs and preparing for the future."

However, starting a new business came with challenges for Indigivision, particularly in procurement, supply chain access, and navigating human resources, policies, and procedures.

"Finding assistance to navigate these processes was difficult," said Ms Vale.

Despite the hurdles, there have been significant achievements.

"Some of the real highlights for us have been working with First Nations people on projects in Aboriginal heritage and remote community reform," she said.

"These projects are groundbreaking, and we're excited to be part of them."

Another exhibitor was the Wunan Foundation, a prominent organisation based in East Kimberley, Kununurra, dedicated to empowering Aboriginal people in the East Kimberley by providing the capabilities and opportunities needed to make positive choices for independent and fulfilling lives.

Wunan Foundation programs align with their strategic priorities to enhance the well-being of Aboriginal communities, while their social enterprises operate across a range of industries, including hospitality, health and well-being, business accounting, research and evaluation, and maintenance services.

Represented by Deputy Chair James Elliott, the foundation used the event to showcase its innovative business ventures, including the Lily Lagoon Resort, a hotel acquired in 2019 with a unique vision.

"The primary purpose of purchasing the Lily Lagoon Resort was to create opportunities for Aboriginal people to enter the hospitality industry," said Mr Elliott.

"Hospitality offers exposure to global employment opportunities, and we want to think globally about Aboriginal people being global citizens."

The resort not only provides guests with a quality stay but also supports the foundation's initiatives by offering training programs and career pathways for East Kimberley's Aboriginal community.

Reflecting on the challenges of running the business, Mr Elliott acknowledged the significant impact of COVID-19.

"COVID, from the outset, was tough on us," he said.

"But as we continue to grow, the focus remains on bringing more people to Kununurra. When you stay at our hotel, you're not just staying at a great place—you're supporting initiatives that empower the local Aboriginal community."

Mr Elliott also highlighted the importance of events like the Indigenous Business Trade Fair for connecting with metropolitan audiences.

"These events provide fantastic exposure," he said.

"When we look at people travelling to the East Kimberley region, they're primarily coming from these metropolitan areas, so it's crucial to represent our region well. However, we need better representation from the Kimberley and East Kimberley at events like this to promote our businesses and initiatives."

By fostering opportunities in hospitality and representing the Kimberley region on a broader stage, the Wunan Foundation continues to create meaningful pathways for Aboriginal people while showcasing the East Kimberley as a destination of cultural and economic significance.

Events like the Indigenous Business Trade Fair underscore the importance of providing platforms for Indigenous businesses to thrive, showcasing their resilience, creativity, and contributions to the economy.

By fostering opportunities for connection and collaboration, these gatherings pave the way for meaningful growth—not just for the businesses themselves, but for the communities they represent.