- NAB Foundation commits $205,000 into research understanding the barriers First Nations businesses experience in accessing appropriate capital for sustainable growth.
- ANU First Nations Portfolio leading research project to better identify how the financial system can break down systemic barriers.
- NAB Foundation and ANU partnership to share findings and recommendations by October 2025.
NAB Foundation and The Australian National University’s (ANU) First Nations Portfolio, have today announced a research project to explore the barriers and opportunities for First Nations businesses engaging with the Australian financial system.
Through NAB Foundation’s financial grant of $205,000 the ANU First Nations Portfolio, led by Professor Peter Yu, will complete a research project to understand First Nations business needs throughout key stages of the business lifecycle.
The research also seeks to identify effective strategies lenders, investors and government can consider to unlock better access for First Nations businesses.
NAB Group Executive, Business & Private Banking, Rachel Slade said NAB Foundation and NAB had a big role to play in supporting First Nations businesses to thrive.
“First Nations businesses are a cornerstone of the communities in which they operate, and NAB is committed to helping these businesses flourish,” Ms Slade said.
“This research will help us to better understand the unique needs and challenges faced by First Nations businesses and provide insight into how we can support them to reach their maximum potential.
“When First Nations businesses grow, they play an important role in making Australia’s economy more diverse and inclusive, and the benefits go straight back into the community. We whole-heartedly want to help foster their success.”
Vice-President First Nations at ANU, Professor Peter Yu, praised the investment, which he hoped would drive change.
“Our collaboration with the NAB Foundation is more than just a grant; it’s a commitment to fostering an environment where First Nations businesses can thrive,” Professor Yu said.
“Through this research, we can create a more inclusive financial ecosystem that supports long-term success and economic self-determination.
“First Nations businesses are at the forefront of driving self-determination and enhancing financial capability and inclusion.
“Through our partnership, we aim to strengthen financial resilience, increase business and employment opportunities, and dismantle the barriers that have historically impeded access to financial services.”
The research will be published in October 2025.
About NAB Foundation
NAB Foundation is a registered charity that uses philanthropy, social investment and in-kind support to fund social and environmental progress in Australian communities served by NAB. By funding the people and communities who make a real difference, the NAB Foundation aims to help tackle social and environmental challenges relevant to NAB, natural disasters, climate transition, First Nations economic advancement and affordable housing.
About ANU
ANU is Australia’s leading university and consistently recognised as one of the great universities of the world. Located in the nation’s capital city, our founding mission in 1946 was to be a national resource – a trusted intellectual powerhouse of research and education that would advance Australia’s capability and position on a global scale.
