We want to acknowledge the incredible work already being done in this space by First Nations-led organisations. We’re not entering as leaders, but as contributors – adding our voice and efforts to an ongoing conversation that has been guided by First Nations communities for a long time.
Many have been part of this journey long before we arrived, and we draw deep inspiration from those who have paved the way. This initiative has been shaped through ongoing conversations between our CEO, Kristen Lark, and First Nations leaders across philanthropy and the non-profit sector, to ensure it aligns with community priorities.
TFN has built its reputation on finding and funding early-stage social enterprises and breaking down barriers between grassroots initiatives and traditional philanthropy. Extending this trust-based, flexible model to First Nations founded and led organisations creating impact around Australia is a natural evolution of that work.
Addressing funding challenges for First Nations enterprises
Many First Nations businesses – both for-profit and non-profit – are social enterprises and for-purpose by nature, yet they’re often locked out of traditional funding due to narrow expectations and limited recognition of different forms of traction and success. This initiative aims to remove those barriers by offering more flexible, trust-based funding and support.
Our approach is localised and community-controlled, tailoring funding to local contexts and empowering communities to shape how resources are distributed. This reduces power imbalances and supports greater self-determination.
Building a resilient First Nations–led sector
Our goal is to contribute to a sustainable pipeline of resilient First Nations businesses and organisations, not just one-off projects. We combine catalytic funding with TFN’s Alumni Program – offering professional development, pro bono services and new funding opportunities – to help build capacity and long-term impact.
Through storytelling, we highlight how for-purpose businesses led by First Nations founders are driving social, cultural and economic outcomes in their communities.
Watch the highlights from our First Nations event in Sydney, 2025.
A strengths-based, community-led approach
- Recognises diverse success indicators – understanding that traditional metrics often miss the full potential of First Nations businesses.
- Shares leadership – our Selection Panel brings together First Nations leaders, TFN Alumni and sector experts to review applications, interview shortlisted organisations and select three finalists to pitch on the night. The 2025 Panel, led by Corey Tutt OAM and guided by TFN’s First Nations Alumni, ensured the event was grounded in lived experience and community insight.
- Backs the founder’s right to win – empowering local leaders to drive impact on their own terms, with the freedom, connections and support they need to succeed, including access to the broader TFN network.
