Andrew Forrest’s Minderoo is looking to back Indigenous startup entrepreneurs

Applications have opened for the Minderoo Foundation’s 2023 Dream Venture Masterclasses with $200,000 in seed funding on offer for First Nations business owners.

The Minderoo Foundation is mining billionaire Andrew Forrest and his wife Nicola’s philanthropic venture.

Dream Venture is led by Minderoo Foundation’s Generation One initiative to equip First Nations entrepreneurs with the connections, capabilities and access to capital to become investor ready. The program has so far helped participants raise more than $4 million for their businesses with more than 200 entrepreneurs having taken part in the program.

The masterclasses are free and delivered online by the Wade Institute of Entrepreneurship. Finalists will travel to Sydney for a gala event in October and pitch for a share of $200,000 in seed capital.

This year’s masterclasses will be delivered in two streams:

A Youth Program, which is for entrepreneurs aged 18 to 30. Dream Venture entrepreneurs will connect with business leaders and investors, tap into global networks and secure mentorship from some of the region’s most successful founders.

An All Ages Program, which is tailored to support 20 First Nation Australian entrepreneurs of any age to prepare their enterprise for growth, and to connect with mentors, investors, and peers to help bring their entrepreneurial dreams to life.

Generation One Director Shelley Cable said they’re hoping to build on the success of last year’s Dream Venture Masterclasses.

“We are constantly inspired by the innovative First Nations founders who take part in this program, who are redefining success in Australian business, and making Australian investors take notice,” she said.

“I encourage all First Nations founders interested in growing their business through investment, to apply for this year’s Dream Venture Masterclasses. The high-quality education and rare access to investors across the country will help you and your business become investor ready.”

Generation One Head of Indigenous Business Les Delaforce said First Nations businesses are 100 times more likely to employ Indigenous Australians.

“That is why we are so excited to be supporting more First Nations founders,” he said.

“This authentic, tailored program is critical to nurturing the next generation of First Nations entrepreneurs and ensuring they have the capability and connections to thrive in the business world.”

Apply at dreamventure.com.au