Discover First Nations suppliers on your doorstep
Business showcase connects local enterprise with industry buyers
Sunshine Coast businesses and industry buyers have a unique opportunity to discover new suppliers and build valuable relationships at a major business showcase this October as part of Indigenous Business Month.
The Sunshine Coast First Nations Business Showcase 2026 will bring First Nations businesses, entrepreneurs, industry leaders and buyers together at Venue 114, Bokarina on 6 October, from 3.45 to 7.30pm.
Sunshine Coast Council is proud to deliver this free event and celebrate First Nations enterprise, excellence and economic prosperity, while creating practical opportunities for collaboration and procurement.
The showcase will feature more than 40 First Nations businesses, as well as a panel discussion, business pitches and a networking session.
First Nations suppliers will also have access to tailored masterclasses offering practical insights into working with government and positioning their businesses for future opportunities.
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson said Indigenous Business Month is the time for Indigenous businesses to showcase their capability and successes, while also building new connections and partnerships.
“Queensland is open for business under the Crisafulli Government, and our record $814 million in government procurement awarded to Indigenous businesses last financial year is not only delivering value for money for taxpayers, but also driving real change in local communities,” Minister Simpson said.
“When you buy from these businesses, you are strengthening communities across our State, supporting financial security, economic growth and creating jobs.
“As we unlock even more procurement opportunities ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, now is the time for Indigenous businesses to understand what is on offer and learn how they can get involved."
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the showcase was an opportunity for businesses and buyers to discover local capability and turn new connections into real opportunities.
“Every purchasing decision has the potential to make an impact and this showcase makes it easier to connect directly with talented First Nations suppliers,” Mayor Natoli said.
“Our First Nations business community brings diverse skills, knowledge, products and services to our regional economy.
“This is about opening doors, strengthening supply chains and creating relationships that can lead to genuine business opportunities.
“I encourage local businesses, procurement professionals and industry representatives to register, come along with an open mind, and discover who they could be doing business with.”
Register your attendance to receive event updates.
Event details
Date: Tuesday 6 October 2026
Time: 3.45–7.30pm
Location: Venue 114, 114 Sportsmans Parade, Bokarina
Cost: Free, registration required
View the full event program online.
Strength through collaboration
A highlight of the evening will be the Strength through collaboration panel, bringing together 4 business leaders to share their experiences, knowledge and practical advice for supporting First Nations enterprise and economic prosperity.
The panel will feature:
- CEO of Queensland Indigenous Business Network Paul Graham
- Founder and CEO of Riley Callie Resources Debbie Hoger
- Founder and CEO of Kakadu Organics Kylie Bradford
- Managing Director of PLANZZ Ramone Close.
First Nations businesses will then take to the stage for a series of pitches, sharing who they are, what they do and the connections they are looking to make.
The evening will culminate in a showcase and networking session where buyers can meet suppliers and explore their products and services.
The Dreaming Collective, a First Nations-led consultancy founded by Mandandanji woman Carly Forrest, is the delivery partner for the showcase.
Carly Forrest said meaningful connections between buyers and First Nations businesses could have an impact well beyond the event.
“When buyers take the time to understand the breadth of capability within the First Nations business sector, they open the door to new partnerships, new thinking and stronger supply chains” Ms Forrest said.
The showcase will be held on Kabi Kabi Country and is supported by Sunshine Coast Council, Stockland, the Queensland Government, Coastal Trax, ARUP, Beerwah Coast Connect, Investment and Trade Queensland and Shadforth.
Find out more about First Nations partnerships on Council’s website.