New South Wales (NSW) is home to a growing wave of female entrepreneurs who are breaking barriers, launching innovative startups, and scaling businesses that make a real impact — both in their communities and across international markets. Their success is not just a testament to individual grit and creativity, but also to the increasing support available for women in business through platforms like Service NSW.
This blog celebrates some of the inspiring journeys of NSW women entrepreneurs who have turned bold ideas into thriving ventures. From e-commerce pioneers and Indigenous business leaders to global exporters and tech innovators, these stories offer insight, motivation, and actionable lessons for aspiring and established businesswomen alike.
1. Priya Malhotra – Founder of “Pure Earth Skincare”, Newcastle
Priya, a mother of two and trained chemist, turned her passion for natural skincare into a thriving business. What started in her kitchen quickly gained traction when she participated in Service NSW’s Women in Business program. With help from a Business Concierge, she formalized her operations, accessed digital marketing training, and successfully applied for a regional small business grant.
Today, Pure Earth Skincare sells across Australia and has distribution partners in Southeast Asia. Priya also mentors other women in her community and advocates for eco-conscious beauty products.
2. Aaliyah Davis – Aboriginal Designer and Owner of “Warlu Wear”, Dubbo
Aaliyah, a proud Kamilaroi woman, combined her artistic heritage with modern fashion through her label, Warlu Wear. Service NSW connected her with grants specifically for Indigenous business owners, including assistance from the Aboriginal Business Concierge service.
Her business received funding to exhibit at fashion expos, and she received digital training support to grow her online store. Warlu Wear now partners with local schools for cultural education programs and has been featured in national fashion media.
3. Grace Lin – Tech Entrepreneur and Founder of “SchoolSync”, Sydney
With a background in software engineering and a passion for education, Grace created SchoolSync — a digital platform that helps schools manage communications with parents in multiple languages. As a culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) founder, Grace worked with Service NSW to access translation support, funding, and introductions to public schools across NSW.
Today, her app is used in over 120 schools, and she’s piloting expansion into the U.S. and Singapore. She credits Business Connect’s mentorship and startup workshops as instrumental in preparing her for global growth.
4. Maria Lopes – Food Entrepreneur and Founder of “Tia Maria’s Kitchen”, Wollongong
Maria started her Brazilian catering business from home, selling empanadas and stews at local markets. She approached Service NSW for guidance on licenses, food safety compliance, and marketing. With support from the Business Concierge and a grant from the Small Business Fees and Charges Rebate, Maria was able to open her first commercial kitchen.
Today, her business services large-scale corporate events and distributes packaged frozen meals through supermarkets across NSW. She employs six women from migrant backgrounds and continues to work closely with Service NSW to identify export opportunities.
5. Zahra Khan – Founder of “EduBloom Online Academy”, Parramatta
After years of working in education, Zahra saw a gap in the market for culturally sensitive tutoring programs. She launched EduBloom with the aim of supporting CALD students in maths and science. With assistance from Service NSW’s digital skills training programs, Zahra developed an e-learning platform and expanded into virtual tutoring across Australia.
She also partnered with local councils and community groups to reach underrepresented communities. Zahra’s business now serves over 2,000 students and has received interest from schools in the Middle East and the UK.
Lessons Learned from NSW Women Entrepreneurs
These stories, while diverse in industry and background, share common threads of resilience, innovation, and smart use of government resources. Here are a few takeaways from their journeys:
- Seek support early: All these women reached out to Service NSW at critical moments — whether starting, scaling, or exploring new markets.
- Use grants strategically: Funding helped these businesses with marketing, compliance, and expansion.
- Invest in digital skills: Embracing e-commerce and tech platforms enabled them to compete globally.
- Build your network: Through mentorship and community, they found encouragement and practical advice.
How Service NSW Supports Women Entrepreneurs
If you’re a woman in business or thinking of launching one, Service NSW offers a suite of tools and services tailored to your needs, including:
- Business Concierge: One-on-one support to help you navigate licences, permits, and funding.
- Women in Business Online Program: Free, self-paced training through TAFE NSW.
- Aboriginal and CALD Business Programs: Specialized support and cultural sensitivity resources.
- Grants Finder: A tool to help match you with available funding opportunities.
- Business Connect Mentoring: Personalized mentorship from experienced advisors.
Get Started on Your Own Journey
Whether your dream is to start a café, launch a tech platform, or scale a manufacturing business, NSW is full of opportunities — and you don’t have to do it alone. Service NSW is committed to empowering more women to take the leap into entrepreneurship and grow their impact locally and globally.
Explore available services at service.nsw.gov.au/business or call 13 77 88 to book a one-on-one consultation with a Business Concierge.
📬 Are You a Female Founder with a Story to Share?
We’re always looking to feature new voices and journeys from NSW’s vibrant community of women entrepreneurs. If you’d like to be featured or contribute a guest post:
Email us at [email protected]
