Aboriginal entrepreneurs to access international markets through new online store

A crowdfunding campaign from Enterprise Learning Projects has raised over $10,000 to build an e-commerce shopfront for remote Aboriginal entrepreneurs.

Created by Enterprise Learning Projects and hosted on the Dreamstarter platform (a collaboration between ING Direct and StartSomeGood), the project has already surpassed its “tipping point” funding goal and is on its way to meeting the $15,000 total funding goal with nine days to go.

Enterprise Learning Projects' Laura Egan says the online store will be a vital boost for indigenous Australians working to build sustainable businesses in remote communities.

"We see the potential for enterprise to create new opportunities for these communities, but they need access to markets," Egan said.

“People living in remote Australia are passionate about sharing their culture and using their traditional knowledge to produce contemporary items. At the same time, there is a genuine desire amongst Australians and from people across the world to connect with our first nation people. This site will provide the opportunities for that exchange to take place.”

One group looking forward to growing their business through the ELP initiative is a soap production enterprise run by 20 people from Papulankutja community in Western Australia. Using bush medicine ingredients, individuals involved in the business are able to earn $2.50 per bar of soap produced.

Other products sold will include artworks, clothing, bags and cultural tourism experiences. The enterprises featured on the site will be from remote areas in QLD, WA, SA and NT.

StartSomeGood founder Tom Dawkins said crowdfunding offered new opportunities for indigenous Australians to raise seed capital and fund projects and businesses. “We look forward to connecting more organisations and individuals with an idea for creating social change to the communities that can help realise their vision.”

Readers can support the campaign and learn more at https://www.ingdirect.com.au/dreamstarter

Media Contacts

• High resolution images available upon request
• Caption for above image: Veronica Scott from Papulankutja displaying her bush medicine soaps

About ELP
http://www.elp.org.au

ELP specialises in resourcing, supporting and enabling microenterprise in remote Australia in partnership with locally based organisations. The unique place-based approach to microenterprise pioneered by ELP in many locations is informed by community needs and aspirations and tailored to the local context.

About StartSomeGood
http://www.startsomegood.com

StartSomeGood is a crowdfunding platform for social innovation. We aim to create an "everyone a changemaker" world, where anyone with an idea for creating a better future is empowered to make it happen. We connect your dream with the people and resources you need to make an impact.