Applications are open for the Minderoo Foundation’s 2023 Dream Venture Masterclasses with $200,000 seed funding for First Nations business owners.

The Minderoo Foundation mines the philanthropic venture of billionaire Andrew Forrest and his wife Nicola.

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

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

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

a Youth programfor 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.

A Program for all ageswhich is tailored to support 20 First Nation Australian entrepreneurs of all ages as they prepare their businesses for growth and connect with mentors, investors and peers to help bring their entrepreneurial dreams to life.

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

“We are constantly inspired by the innovative First Nations founders participating in this program, who are redefining success in Australian business and taking Australian investor notice,” she said.

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

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

“That’s why we’re so excited to support 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 ability and connections to thrive in the business world.”

Apply at dreamventure.com.au