Women's Business
Pre-Accelerator
First Nations Women's Diversity Pre-Accelerator Program
Explore the idea. Back yourself. Build what comes next.
A six-week program supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women across NSW to explore ideas, strengthen confidence and build pathways into business, entrepreneurship and innovation.
This program is
for you if you are…
Open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women across NSW. No business experience, plan or pitch required.
Exploring an Idea
Starting a Business
Building in Community
Growing an Early Concept
Building Confidence
Seeking Pathways
What's included
Six weeks of structured learning, hands-on mentoring and in-person connection — designed to fit your life, wherever you are in NSW.
Weekly Online Masterclasses
Structured learning sessions delivered online, accessible from metro, regional or remote NSW.
Three-Day In-Person Intensive
Hands-on workshops, mentoring, storytelling, collaboration and pitch preparation — all in one dedicated gathering.
Mentoring & Coaching
One-on-one guidance from experienced mentors who understand First Nations business and community.
Peer Learning & Networking
Connect with a cohort of First Nations women building ideas, businesses and community initiatives.
Practical Business Tools
Real-world frameworks, templates and resources to take your idea from concept to action.
Pathways to Funding & Accelerators
Exposure to funding opportunities, accelerator programs and ecosystem partners for your next steps.
Your journey through the program
Week 1 — Explore the Possibilities
Connect with the cohort, mentors and facilitators while exploring your ideas, strengths and goals.
Week 2 — Shape the Idea
Explore the problem you want to solve and who it matters to.
Week 3 — Understand Your Audience
Learn about customers, community, value creation and communicating your idea clearly.
Week 4 — Business & Money Basics
Build confidence in business models, pricing, sustainability and financial literacy.
Week 5 — Three-Day Intensive
Hands-on workshops, mentoring, storytelling, collaboration and pitch preparation — all together, in person.
Week 6 — Pitch & Next Steps
Bring everything together and prepare for future pathways and opportunities.
Built for First Nations Women
The program is culturally grounded, practical and supportive. Every element has been designed with First Nations women at the centre — because self-determination starts with being backed by your community.
Register Your InterestMentors & Role Models
Access to experienced First Nations professionals who understand your journey.
Practical Business Knowledge
Real tools and frameworks you can apply immediately — no jargon, no barriers.
Peer Support Networks
A cohort of First Nations women who grow, learn and connect together.
Pathways into Future Opportunities
Referrals to accelerators, funding, networks and ecosystem partners after the program.
A Growing Ecosystem
Join a growing community of First Nations women in business and leadership across NSW.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the program for?
The program is designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women across NSW interested in business, entrepreneurship, innovation or exploring an idea. This includes women exploring an idea for the first time, early-stage founders, women building community-led initiatives, women wanting to strengthen confidence and capability, and women interested in future accelerator or funding opportunities.
Do I need to already have a business?
No. You do not need a registered business, business plan or fully developed idea to apply. The program is specifically designed for women at the early stages of exploring business and entrepreneurship.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. Participation in the program is fully funded for successful participants.
Is the program online or in person?
The program uses a hybrid delivery model including weekly online masterclasses, mentoring and coaching, self-paced learning resources, and a three-day in-person intensive. This approach supports participation across metropolitan, regional and remote NSW.
What if I live in regional or remote NSW?
Women from metropolitan, regional and remote communities are encouraged to apply. The program has been designed to support participation across NSW through flexible and accessible delivery approaches.
What kind of support will I receive?
Participants will have access to mentoring and coaching, practical workshops, peer learning and networking, business and entrepreneurship resources, pathways into accelerators and funding, and ongoing aftercare and follow-up support.
What happens after the program finishes?
Participants remain connected through aftercare and alumni engagement — including mentoring follow-up, introductions to networks and ecosystem partners, referrals to accelerators and funding, and ongoing opportunities through Nyami Balmuun and First Nations Economics.
What if I'm nervous or not confident?
That's completely okay. This program is designed to be supportive, practical and culturally grounded. Many participants may be exploring business or entrepreneurship for the first time. The focus is on building confidence, capability and connection — not perfection.
How do I apply?
Applications can be submitted through the online Expression of Interest form. The process is designed to be simple and accessible, with support available if needed.
Ready to back yourself?
Register your interest today and take the first step toward your business journey.
Register Your Interest
The Diversity Pre-Accelerator Program is delivered by First Nations Economics with support from Investment NSW.
