The Allan Labor Government is giving multicultural businesses and traders more support, with a targeted grant program backing the positive impact multicultural enterprises have on local economies.

Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes announced that applications are open for the Multicultural Business Chambers and Trader Groups program, providing grants of up to $20,000.

Northern Victorian business groups can use the funds to support the local multicultural businesses and projects that drive collaboration, skill building, and celebrate diversity.

The grant program will support locally led projects that aim to support upskilling business owners in digital and in-language marketing, local business expo events and providing opportunities for meaningful networking.

The program is part of the Labor Government's $17 million investment to support multicultural businesses with the skills and services they need to grow and succeed.

Victoria is proudly home to more than 701,000 small businesses and 34 per cent of Australian small business owners are migrants – with even more small business owners having one or more parents born overseas.

Multicultural businesses play an important role in Victoria – they broaden our global connections, create local employment opportunities and they strengthen the cultural diversity of Victoria.

Applications for the program are now open and will close on 17 July. For more information about the program and how to apply please visit business.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Small Business Natalie Suleyman

“Small businesses are at the heart of our economy and we’re backing the traders groups that support them. This grant program will deliver multicultural events that drive local economic activity and celebrate Victoria’s diversity.” 

“Our Multicultural Business Chambers and Trader Groups program will be open to trader groups in Victoria to deliver locally-led activities that support business networking events and celebrate our vibrant small business communities”

Quote attributable to Member for Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes

“This program is supporting our multicultural small businesses to run locally led projects within the community that will help businesses flourish throughout the region.”