Culturally and linguistically diverse women in Parramatta and other parts of New South Wales are set to receive targeted support to build food businesses, following a $500,000 funding commitment under the Supporting Women in Business Grants 2025/26.
The funding has been awarded to The Social Outcomes Lab and the Unkya Local Aboriginal Land Council, with the aim of supporting 90 women across the state to develop business capability, confidence and practical skills. The initiative spans metropolitan and regional areas, reflecting a broader push to lift women’s participation in small business, particularly among Aboriginal and culturally diverse communities.
The Social Outcomes Lab will deliver its Business incubator for migrant women foodpreneurs program across Cumberland, Campbelltown, Parramatta and Queanbeyan-Palerang. The program combines business training, culinary development and empowerment support, designed to help migrant and refugee women move from early ideas to viable food enterprises.
Small businesses remain central to the NSW economy, accounting for 97 per cent of all businesses and employing about 1.7 million people. Census data from 2021 shows women make up roughly 34 per cent of small business owners in the state, compared with 66 per cent who are male, a gap the NSW Women’s Strategy aims to narrow by improving access to opportunity and support.
“Small business owners add value and a diverse offering to Parramatta with their fresh ideas, energy and community spirit.The Supporting Women in Business Grants program is tailored to supporting more women to turn their enterprising ideas into reality. I’m thrilled that the Social Outcomes Lab is working to make a difference on the ground in our local area to help women from multicultural backgrounds to thrive in business”
Donna Davis said small business owners play an important role in Parramatta’s local economy and community life. “Small business owners add value and a diverse offering to Parramatta with their fresh ideas, energy and community spirit,” she said. “The Supporting Women in Business Grants program is tailored to supporting more women to turn their enterprising ideas into reality.” She added that she was pleased to see the Social Outcomes Lab working locally “to help women from multicultural backgrounds to thrive in business”.
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said many women across the state have strong business ideas but lack early support. “I’ve met many women across New South Wales who have shared fantastic ideas for a small business – they just need a bit of support to get them off the ground,” she said. The grants, she said, allow government to work with community organisations to provide business training and mentoring, giving women confidence and guidance as they grow their ventures. “Women-run businesses, especially micro-businesses, are on the rise, and the Minns Government is working hard to empower women across the state to fulfil their ambitions of running their own business.”
Minister for Small Business Janelle Saffin said the funding recognises the broader impact of women-led enterprises. “These grants are about backing women who are creating opportunity not just for themselves, but for their families, their communities and their local economies,” she said. She highlighted funding for Aboriginal-led initiatives and migrant women-led organisations, noting that many women overcome barriers to establish successful businesses. “When we invest in women-led small businesses, we invest in more resilient, inclusive and innovative communities.”
The Unkya Local Aboriginal Land Council will support Aboriginal women in Coffs Harbour, the Bellingen Valley and the Nambucca Valley, with a focus on tourism and cultural enterprise. Chief executive Michele Donovan said the program would provide tailored mentoring and business training. “Utilising their strong cultural connections, stories and language to develop a sound tourism product, or cultural tourism experience, Aboriginal women will gain skills, confidence and resources needed to start or grow micro and small businesses,” she said. The approach, she added, supports women from early ideas through to finance and launch, while showcasing the Gumbaynggirr cultural experience.
The Social Outcomes Lab managing director Nazia Ahmed said the initiative extends beyond individual businesses. “This accelerator program has the potential to transform lives while strengthening social cohesion across New South Wales,” she said. The program, she explained, supports culturally and linguistically diverse women through practical training, confidence building and access to professional networks and investment pathways. “By sharing the stories of these food entrepreneurs, the program will foster greater understanding and connection across communities,” she said, adding that it also lays the groundwork for a future global social franchise model that supports women’s livelihoods and aspirations.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
