Hub increases Indigenous business capacity

With the support of the Australian Government, under the Indigenous Business Sector Strategy, the Wirrpanda Foundation opened the Wirra Hub in February of this year.

With a new space and five dedicated business coaches, the Hub hit the ground running and began connecting with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses from across the state.

Although hindered by having to shut its doors to the public during COVID-19 restrictions, our coaches ensured they were still connecting with business owners virtually or by phone.

Once reopened and welcoming back clients into the space, the Hub once again become a space for Indigenous business owners, service providers and corporates to connect, seeing over 1500 visitors through its doors this year.  

An important part of the services the Hub offers to its clients is access to networking and workshop events. Over the year, four networking events were held at the Hub, which saw over 120 participants attend. For those wanting to upskill, 12 free workshops were hosted, covering everything from how to understand business financials, marketing a business and contract basis, to how to prepare a tender, employment contract basics and tax clinics.

The Hub also commenced a series of Pop Up Regional Hubs as part of its commitment to providing support to Aboriginal businesses located in Regional Western Australia. Over the year, seven Regional Pop Up Hubs were hosted across Bunbury, Carnarvon, Mandurah, Kalgoorlie, Karratha and Port Hedland. These Pop Ups saw a total 116 attendees, who all heard from organisations relevant to their regions about future work and projects.

After a busy year, the Hub now has 127 clients, all from a range of difference industries including mining, music, trades, art and hospitality. With each client having access to the Hubs meeting rooms, short-term office space, laptops, WiFi and expert advice from coaches, the Hub has created a space where Aboriginal and Torres Strait businesses in Western Australia can thrive.

A big thank you to our clients, service providers and corporates who have connected with the Hub this year, we wish you all a happy and safe Christmas!