‘Gamechanger’ grants for First Nations businesswomen
Applications are now open for $2,500 Professional Development Grants for First Nations Women.
Ember Connect, supported by BHP, have announced their latest round of funding dedicated to professional development and will see four Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women receive $2,500 to invest in their growth.
This round is dedicated to professional development and will see four Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women receive $2,500 to invest in their growth.
The funding is designed to help women access meaningful opportunities that strengthen career and leadership pathway.
Eligible activities may include conferences, accredited courses, specialised training or leadership programs.
Membership of Ember Connect is free. Click here to get started: https://emberconnectlive.com.au/
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must identify as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander woman aged 18 years or older.
- Applicants must be residents of Australia.
- Applicants must complete the online application form in full.
- The online application must be submitted before the closing date (11.59pm on Tuesday 31 March 2026)
Use of Funds
The proposed use of funds must related directly to your professional development.
Grant funds must be used solely for the purposes outlined in the application and proposed budget.
- Funds cannot be used to pay for wages or as a wage replacement.
- Applicants must confirm that the expenses outlined in their application are not being funded, reimbursed or supported by any other grant, sponsorship or funding source.
- As funding decisions are expected to be finalised by the end of April 2026, Ember Connect will only consider applications for activities or events commencing on or after 1 May 2026. Funded activities must be completed by 30 April 2027. Costs incurred prior to 1 May 2026 will not be eligible for support.
- The Game Changer Grant provides up to $2,500 to support participation in an approved professional development opportunity. Grant funds may be used to cover registration or participation fees and reasonable travel and accommodation expenses where these are directly required to attend the approved activity. Travel or accommodation costs will only be supported where they are clearly linked to participation in the professional development activity.
- All funded expenses must be incurred in the name of the successful applicant only. The grant cannot be used to cover costs, fees, travel or expenses for any other person or third party.
- If the total cost of the proposed activity exceeds $2,500, the grantee must be able to evidence that they can fund the balance from other sources.
Applications close March 31, 2026.
