First Australians Capital finds new home at The Precinct

Adrian Appo OAM, Founding Co-Chair of First Australians Capital

First Australians Capital (FAC), an independent First Nations-led fund manager and business advisory organisation will join startups, investors and entrepreneurs at The Precinct, Queensland’s leading innovation hub.

First Australians Capital provides a range of financial products, including debt, patient capital and more to support First Nations enterprises to grow their businesses through access to finance, networks and market opportunities. Their purpose is to accelerate the Indigenous economy through unlocking capital and supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs to develop sustainable enterprises.

Since launching in 2016, FAC has supported more than 800 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander entrepreneurs, has leveraged $80 million in capital and created 820 jobs.

Based in the heart of Fortitude Valley, The Precinct is home to startups, government, industry leaders, investors, and a number of startup programs that support entrepreneurs at every stage of their business journey. 

Adrian Appo OAM, Managing Director- Partnership,  at First Australians Capital says, 

“As a leader in sector Change, First Australians Capital is excited to begin joining the entrepreneurial hub as our QLD base.  The environment of fostered collaboration and innovation will enhance our works in creating pathways for First Nations businesses and communities to actively participate in and lead a new economy. This space will provide FAC with practical foundations to empower our community through events, workshops, drop-in coworking spaces, and one-on-one meetings, enabling us to turn challenges into real, sustainable growth.”  

In 2024, the Queensland Government announced $1.5 million in support for a First Australians Capital Business Acceleration Program to be delivered by First Australians Capital to enhance further innovation and entrepreneurial opportunities for First Nations people in Queensland.

Support under the program includes:

• Enterprise Loans and Grants – a $1 million fund available through early-stage /seed investment for loans of up to $100,000 to Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander innovative businesses. 
• Business Strategic Advisory Services – a targeted fund to cover costs of essential business strategic advisory services. 
• Leveraged Pathways – customised assistance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses navigating grants and procurement opportunities to elevate their competitiveness in accessing available funding.

The Precinct Community Manager, Natalie Bentley, said they are committed to building an inclusive and diverse community within the innovation sector. 

“As Queensland’s leading startup hub, we’re thrilled to welcome First Australians Capital to The Precinct. Together, we share the core goal of supporting entrepreneurs and igniting innovation through shared knowledge, community, and support. We’re looking forward to welcoming the team and watching the businesses and individuals they support thrive within our community.”

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