Applications now open for Dream Venture 2023

Dream Venture is a leading national program, led by Minderoo Foundation’s Generation One initiative, equipping First Nations entrepreneurs with the connections, capabilities and access to capital to become investor ready. 

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

The program has so far helped participants raise more than $4 million for their businesses with more than 200 entrepreneurs having taken part in the program.  

This year’s Masterclasses will be delivered in two streams: 

Youth Program 

The youth program is for entrepreneurs aged 18 to 30-years-old. 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. 

All Ages Program 

The All-Ages Dream Venture Masterclass will be tailored to support 20 First Nation Australian entrepreneurs of any age to prepare their enterprise for growth, and to connect with mentors, investors, and peers to help bring their entrepreneurial dreams to life. 

Comments attributed to Generation One Director Shelley Cable:  

“We are so excited to be back in 2023 and to build on the success of last year’s Dream Venture Masterclasses. 

“We are constantly inspired by the innovative First Nations founders who take part in this program, who are redefining success in Australian business, and making Australian investors take notice. We are humbled to play a small part in their business journeys through the Dream Venture Masterclasses.  

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

Comments attributed to Generation One Head of Indigenous Business Les Delaforce:  

“We know  First Nations businesses are 100 times more likely to employ Indigenous Australians and that is why we are so excited to be supporting more First Nations founders. 

“This authentic, tailored program is critical to nurturing the next generation of First Nations entrepreneurs and ensuring they have the capability and connections to thrive in the business world.” 

For more information and to apply visit dreamventure.com.au