Canberra is set to host a major event celebrating Indigenous business excellence, with the Supply Nation Indigenous Business Trade Fair taking place on 12 February at QT Canberra. The event will bring together Indigenous entrepreneurs, corporate and government buyers, and the broader community to foster new business opportunities and showcase the incredible diversity of Indigenous businesses in Australia.

With around 80 exhibitors spanning industries such as aerospace, cyber security, facilities management, tourism, professional services, and energy, the Canberra event highlights the growing impact of Indigenous businesses across the economy.

Supply Nation CEO Kate Russell said the trade fair is a vital platform to challenge outdated perceptions and highlight the success and innovation within the Indigenous business community.

“Reputations are often challenged when people see firsthand what Indigenous businesses can offer,” Ms Russell said. “There’s a real sense of pride among the exhibitors to showcase their work and celebrate excellence. It’s an opportunity for businesses to tell their stories and demonstrate the impact they’re having—whether at a micro, meso, or macro level.”

Ms Russell hopes attendees will leave the event not only inspired but with new connections that lead to tangible business outcomes.

“I want people to walk away with two or three new leads and go back to their workplaces, friends, and family talking about the power of the Indigenous business community,” she said.

Why Canberra’s business community should attend

Canberra was chosen as a key location for the trade fair due to the significant role government departments play in Indigenous procurement. There are also around 250 Indigenous businesses (Supply Nation listed) located in the ACT. Ms Russell noted that Supply Nation itself was born out of a government inquiry, making Canberra a natural fit for the event.

“Government portfolios, corporate buyers, and even individuals looking for unique and high-quality products will find something valuable at the trade fair,” she said. “It’s an opportunity for them to meet Indigenous businesses directly, understand the level of excellence on offer, and explore potential collaborations—whether you’re part of a large organisation or just looking for Christmas presents.”

Indigenous business growth: A positive force in the economy

Supply Nation’s recent Legacy Research Report revealed a 41 percent annual increase in verified Indigenous suppliers. Ms Russell sees this growth as a key contributor to Australia’s economy and a means of creating generational wealth within Indigenous communities.

“Often, the national conversation about Indigenous Australians focuses on deficits,” she said. “We see this in ‘Closing the Gap’ reports. But Indigenous business is a success story. These businesses are not only supporting families but building multi-million-dollar companies, exporting goods, and entering industries that were previously out of reach.”

The rise of second-generation Indigenous businesses and female Indigenous entrepreneurs is another encouraging trend. Currently, 30 to 35 percent of Indigenous businesses on Supply Nation’s database are female-owned or  operated, with an increasing number of businesses thriving in regional areas thanks to technology and remote work opportunities.

A free and accessible event for all

Ms Russell emphasised that the trade fair is completely free to attend, making it an accessible opportunity for anyone interested in supporting Indigenous businesses.

“A trade show like this is a positive experience, filled with culture, community, and empowerment,” she said. “There’s no cost, and it’s a chance to start a meaningful engagement—or at the very least, spend a few hours learning about an important movement that has been shaping Australia for over 15 years.”

Over the past 15 years, Supply Nation has facilitated over $20 billion in Indigenous procurement, and recorded  $4.6 billion in procurement spend in 2023-24 alone.

For more information on the event and exhibitors, visit Supply Nation’s website.