Across New South Wales, women of colour are launching and growing successful businesses, contributing immensely to the state’s economic diversity and cultural vibrancy. However, while the entrepreneurial spirit runs strong, many face unique challenges—ranging from language barriers and cultural disconnection to limited access to mainstream business support systems.
Recognising these needs, Service NSW offers a variety of culturally inclusive programs and services that empower women of colour to start, manage, and expand their businesses confidently. This blog explores how these offerings help level the playing field for multicultural female entrepreneurs across NSW.
Understanding the Challenges Faced by Women of Colour in Business
While starting a business is difficult for anyone, women of colour often face additional hurdles, including:
- Lack of culturally specific mentorship or guidance
- Language and communication barriers
- Limited awareness of available grants, licenses, and compliance needs
- Underrepresentation in mainstream business events and networks
- Discrimination or unconscious bias in financial or client-facing sectors
Addressing these barriers requires targeted, inclusive support systems—and that’s exactly where Service NSW steps in.
How Service NSW Supports Women of Colour in Business
Service NSW provides tailored tools, advisory services, and government navigation support for business owners from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Here’s how:
1. Business Concierge Service
The Business Concierge program offers one-on-one support from advisors who can help you understand requirements for registration, licensing, and expansion. They work with sensitivity to your cultural background and ensure clarity in communication, whether English is your first language or not.
Learn more about Business Concierge →
2. Multicultural NSW Business Resources
Service NSW collaborates closely with Multicultural NSW to offer business workshops, translation services, and community outreach programs specifically targeting diverse communities. These initiatives are designed to:
- Provide business training in multiple languages
- Connect you with ethnic chambers of commerce
- Foster inclusive business networks
3. Free Business Advice Through Business Connect
The Business Connect program provides culturally aware and multilingual advisors who offer support in planning, marketing, funding, and compliance. These professionals understand the nuances and expectations of multicultural clients and provide advice that is inclusive and empathetic.
Access Business Connect Services →
4. Support for Refugee and Migrant Entrepreneurs
If you’re a first-generation migrant or refugee, programs such as Ignite Small Business Start-ups by Settlement Services International (SSI) can be accessed via Service NSW’s partner network. These initiatives provide in-language mentoring, help with business registration, and access to culturally inclusive financial education.
5. Tailored Grants and Funding Opportunities
Women of colour in NSW can apply for grants that support:
- Community-driven business ideas
- Multicultural entrepreneurship development
- Business recovery post-natural disaster or COVID-19
Service NSW keeps an updated list of available grants and helps applicants navigate the process step-by-step.
Real Case Study: Building a Business from Culture
Fatima, a Sudanese-Australian woman living in Western Sydney, started a home-based catering business serving East African cuisine. With help from Service NSW’s Business Concierge, she was able to register her business, obtain the necessary food safety permits, and receive funding through a multicultural small business grant. Today, she delivers culturally inspired meals across NSW and has hired two staff members from her local community.
Events and Networks That Promote Inclusivity
Service NSW also partners with networks and initiatives to host events and training tailored for multicultural women, such as:
- Multicultural Business Symposiums
- Women in Business networking evenings in diverse suburbs like Parramatta and Liverpool
- Culturally sensitive financial literacy workshops delivered in collaboration with local councils
How to Get Started
If you’re a woman of colour looking to start or grow a business in NSW, here’s how to connect with the support you need:
- Book a call with a Business Concierge – It’s free and tailored to your needs.
- Explore the Business Connect directory – Choose an advisor who shares your language or background.
- Register for a Women in Business Webinar – Offered through TAFE NSW for free learning and peer engagement.
- Join multicultural business groups – Access networking opportunities and stay informed about local events.
Conclusion: Your Culture is Your Strength
Diversity fuels innovation. As a woman of colour in NSW, your unique cultural background is an asset in building a successful, community-driven, and profitable business. Service NSW recognises this and has built systems to ensure you’re not just included—but celebrated and supported.
Whether you’re starting a new business or expanding into new markets, culturally inclusive guidance is available every step of the way.
Interested in contributing your own multicultural business journey? Reach out to [email protected] to be featured or write a guest post on our platform highlighting women of colour breaking barriers in NSW business.
