There are a number of funding bodies set up specifically to assist small businesses get up and running. Some offer loans to applicants who may not be approved by mainstream banks, some offer low interest rates with flexible repayment terms, and some can even offer you a portion of your financial capital as a grant.

If you were hoping to get a portion of your start up costs from a grant it is important to understand that you will need to commit a great deal of time to applying and satisfying the reporting requirements. There is also usually a significant financial or labour commitment required from you. Community Builders NSW provides helpful advice on writing funding submissions.

There are also a number of specialists who you can contract to help you write a grant funding submission, though this can be a costly and time consuming process, and you can never be certain of obtaining grant funds. It may suit your business needs better to consider a loan instead of a grant.

• Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) Enterprises provides finance tailored to the risk profile of each application. Reduced interest loans are available to Indigenous applicants including individuals, partnerships, companies and corporations (subject to approval). 
• The Indigenous Stock Exchange advocates and supports Indigenous business development through trading floors which match Indigenous business with investors, mentors and supporters
• The Indigenous Capital Assistance Scheme provided by Westpac in partnership with the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations offers eligible Indigenous businesses financial and advisory support by way of reduced fees and subsidised interest.
• Search our database for a range of funding options including grants, loans and subsidies which may be suited to your business