New South Wales (NSW) is home to one of the most vibrant multicultural communities in Australia. Entrepreneurs from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds have played a significant role in shaping the economic landscape of the state. Whether operating restaurants, service-based companies, tech startups, or export ventures, multicultural business owners contribute to innovation, employment, and cultural enrichment across NSW.
However, many CALD entrepreneurs face systemic barriers such as language difficulties, limited access to finance, and unfamiliarity with local regulatory frameworks. To address these challenges, the NSW Government—through Service NSW and partner organisations—offers targeted grants and training programs designed to support multicultural businesses from startup to scale-up.
Why Support for Multicultural Entrepreneurs Matters
Multicultural entrepreneurs often bring unique global perspectives, creativity, and resilience to the business world. But without access to culturally appropriate business education and financial support, they may struggle to grow and compete. The NSW Government recognises that unlocking the potential of multicultural businesses is vital to building a more inclusive and prosperous economy.
Through a mix of funding opportunities, training modules, and personalised advice, Service NSW ensures that multicultural business owners get the help they need to succeed—regardless of their cultural or linguistic background.
Available Grants for Multicultural Business Owners
1. Multicultural NSW Grants Program
The Multicultural NSW Grants Program funds initiatives that promote community harmony and social cohesion. For business owners, this includes funding for:
- Community-led business expos or trade shows
- Workshops that build entrepreneurial skills in migrant communities
- Mentorship programs and leadership development
Grants are typically issued in rounds throughout the year and are available to non-profit organisations and business associations working with CALD communities.
2. Business Support Grants via Local Councils
Many local councils in NSW provide small business startup grants for underrepresented groups, including multicultural entrepreneurs. These may include:
- Startup microgrants (usually up to $5,000) to cover business setup costs
- Funding for marketing or website development
- Support for pop-up shops or local cultural business initiatives
Examples include grant programs offered by Canterbury-Bankstown, Fairfield City, Blacktown, and Cumberland councils—regions known for their strong multicultural presence.
3. Small Business Rebate Program
Administered by SafeWork NSW, this rebate helps small businesses cover safety improvement costs. Multicultural businesses operating in sectors like retail or hospitality can apply to receive up to $1,000 in rebates after completing eligible safety training.
4. Business Disaster Recovery Grants
CALD business owners affected by floods, bushfires, or COVID-19 disruptions may be eligible for disaster recovery grants. These grants cover:
- Loss of stock or equipment
- Repair and rebuild expenses
- Loss of revenue compensation (in some cases)
Service NSW provides multilingual advisors who assist in the application process for these grants.
Training Programs Tailored for CALD Entrepreneurs
1. Business Connect Program
Business Connect is one of the most valuable resources for multicultural entrepreneurs in NSW. It offers:
- Free or subsidised one-on-one business advice
- Workshops and webinars on marketing, compliance, and growth
- Advisors who speak languages like Arabic, Mandarin, Vietnamese, and more
This program is especially useful for newly arrived migrants and refugees who may be navigating business ownership for the first time in Australia.
2. Women in Business Program (TAFE NSW + Service NSW)
This free, self-paced online course supports women from CALD backgrounds by providing training in:
- Starting a business
- Digital tools and e-commerce
- Time management and productivity
Participants receive a certificate of completion and access to a supportive business network.
3. Multicultural Business Advisory Services
Partnering with ethnic chambers of commerce, Service NSW supports multicultural business advisors who understand the cultural nuances of business operation in CALD communities. These advisors can:
- Help set up ABNs and business names
- Guide on grant applications and compliance
- Connect you with industry events and funding opportunities
4. Settlement Services International (SSI) Enterprise Hub
In collaboration with Service NSW, SSI offers migrant entrepreneurs services including:
- Business planning and coaching
- Market access strategies for niche and ethnic products
- Pitch preparation and investor readiness programs
This is particularly useful for refugees or new migrants who may have limited formal education or business experience.
Networking and Community Events
Service NSW also supports multicultural business networking through:
- Local business expos and cultural fairs
- Online directories for multicultural businesses
- Workshops co-hosted by multicultural chambers of commerce
These events not only promote visibility but also help forge strategic partnerships among CALD entrepreneurs and mainstream Australian businesses.
How to Get Started
If you’re a multicultural business owner in NSW looking to access grants or training, here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the Service NSW for Business portal
- Search for available translated resources in your preferred language
- Book a free session with a Business Connect multicultural advisor
- Use the Grants and Assistance Finder to locate available funding
- Register for free online training like the Women in Business program
Conclusion: Empowering Diverse Entrepreneurs for a Stronger NSW
NSW’s future economic growth is tightly linked to its multicultural strength. By investing in CALD entrepreneurs through targeted grants and training programs, the government not only supports individual success stories but also fosters community wellbeing and job creation. With support from Service NSW, multicultural business owners can move beyond barriers and build thriving, sustainable businesses that enrich the state’s economy.
Ready to take the next step in your business journey? Tap into the grants and training programs available today—and grow with confidence.
📢 Want to Share Your Multicultural Business Journey?
We’re always looking for inspiring stories from CALD entrepreneurs. If you’d like to contribute a guest post or feature on our blog, reach out to us.
Email [email protected] to submit your interest.
