Women across New South Wales are increasingly stepping into leadership roles in business, entrepreneurship, and innovation. However, building and scaling a business still comes with its unique set of challenges—especially for women balancing career growth with family, community responsibilities, and societal expectations. To help overcome these challenges, the NSW Government offers a variety of tailored programs that provide financial support, mentorship, education, and access to valuable networks.
This guide breaks down the top five government-backed programs that every woman entrepreneur in NSW should know about. Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale your business, these programs offer critical tools to succeed in today’s dynamic economy.
1. Women in Business Program – TAFE NSW
The Women in Business Program, offered through TAFE NSW and supported by the NSW Government, is a free online program for women who are starting, managing, or growing a small business. It’s designed to be flexible and self-paced—perfect for busy women juggling multiple roles.
What It Offers:
- Over 90 online modules covering marketing, finance, planning, and more
- Access to expert advice and real-world case studies
- Webinars and online networking events
- Completely free for eligible NSW women
This is an excellent entry point for women looking to strengthen their business acumen in a low-pressure learning environment.
2. Business Connect – Free Business Advisory Services
Business Connect is a NSW Government initiative that offers one-on-one business advice, training, and workshops through experienced advisors. Women entrepreneurs benefit greatly from the customized support that helps them develop sustainable business models.
Key Features:
- Confidential business advice from accredited professionals
- Help with digital transformation, marketing, finance, and operations
- Workshops and networking tailored to women-owned businesses
- Available across NSW, including regional and remote areas
This service is particularly helpful during startup or business expansion phases and has supported thousands of NSW-based women over the years.
3. Women’s Economic Opportunities Fund
Launched in 2022, the Women’s Economic Opportunities (WEO) Fund is a flagship initiative that provides grants and support services to boost women’s participation in the workforce and entrepreneurship.
How It Helps:
- Grants for organizations to create jobs and training for women
- Programs focused on business skills development, confidence-building, and mentorship
- Support for women returning to work or transitioning careers
- Specific support for Aboriginal, regional, migrant, and culturally diverse women
The WEO Fund contributes to long-term structural change by removing systemic barriers and encouraging financial independence for women in NSW.
4. Service NSW Business Concierge
The Business Concierge service through Service NSW is a personalized support channel that guides business owners through the process of starting, running, and growing a business in NSW. This is especially useful for women who may be new to regulatory or licensing requirements.
Features:
- One-on-one guidance from a Business Concierge
- Help with ABN registration, permits, and regulatory compliance
- Assistance navigating grants and financial assistance programs
- Dedicated support for regional and culturally diverse women-led businesses
Entrepreneurs can book appointments online, by phone, or in person, making the process highly accessible no matter where they live.
5. Export Assistance Grants – Helping Women Go Global
Women-led businesses looking to scale internationally can take advantage of various export grants offered by Investment NSW and the Export Assistance Program. These programs help offset the costs associated with expanding into global markets.
Support Includes:
- Funding for trade shows, e-commerce platforms, and marketing overseas
- Help accessing international buyers and distribution partners
- Training on export-readiness and international compliance
- Special assistance for female-led businesses in regional areas
Going global is no longer out of reach for small, women-owned businesses, thanks to this structured government support.
Bonus Resource: Grants and Funding Finder
In addition to the above programs, the Grants and Funding Finder tool on the Service NSW website is an excellent resource. It allows users to filter through available state and federal grant opportunities specific to their business size, industry, and location. Women entrepreneurs can use this platform to identify new funding opportunities throughout the year.
Visit: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding
Conclusion: Take Advantage of What’s Available
NSW is one of the most progressive regions in Australia when it comes to championing female entrepreneurship. By leveraging these government programs, women in business can access tools, knowledge, funding, and mentorship to thrive in competitive markets.
If you’re a woman entrepreneur in NSW and unsure where to begin, start with the Women in Business Program or reach out to a Business Concierge through Service NSW. The road to financial independence and business success is just a few clicks away.
Interested in sharing your story or contributing to our platform? Email us at [email protected] to learn about guest post opportunities and women-led features on our blog.
