The Carroll Labor Government is backing more opportunities for small business growth. 

Minister for Small and Family Business Natalie Suleyman today announced two new grant programs that will deliver up to $10,000 in funding for local business associations and trader groups.

This will support small businesses to build skills, strengthen their networks and create new opportunities.

 

Multicultural Business Skills Fund Grant Program
The Fund provides $5,000 grants to business associations for projects that help diverse small business owners and their workers develop their business skills. 

Grants are open to trader groups, business chambers and industry organisations. Funding can be used to deliver projects that provide training and mentoring.

This Fund is an initiative under Labor’s $17 million Supporting our Multicultural Traders and Precincts.

Applications for the Multicultural Business Skills Fund are now open.

 

Shop Local Business Fund
The Fund provides $5,000 grants to business associations and local councils to deliver initiatives that support Victorian small businesses, and the contributions they make to communities.

Delivered through the Victorian Budget 2026/27, projects eligible for funding include local business expos and awards, shop local campaigns, online promotions, workshops and mental health and wellbeing initiatives.

Applications for the Shop Local Business Fund will open on Thursday, 3 September.

 

Victoria’s 735,000 small businesses make a big contribution to Victoria’s economy.

They employ over 1.3 million Victorians and generate more than $429 billion annually in income.

Initiatives like this are possible because of the Carroll Labor Government.

For more information about both grant programs and how to apply, visit business.vic.gov.au.