CONNECT 2025: IPS at Forefront of First Nations Economic Future

From left: Katie Clarke, Cameron Wood, Katina Law, Colette McEntee, Lauren Hoskins

Sydney — First Nations businesses are being hailed as the “sleeping giant” of the Australian economy, with new figures showing they generate billions in social and economic value, according to an ANZ commissioned Deloitte Access Economics report

Supply Nation’s Connect 2025 conference, which opened at ICC Sydney on Wednesday, drew more than 4000 corporate and government buyers, community leaders and international delegates.

Over two days, more than 270 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-owned enterprises showcased their services in what has become the premier marketplace for First Nations commerce.

IPS stepped forward as one of the sector’s leading voices at the nation’s biggest Indigenous business event.

Being just one of just eight Indigenous-owned firms on the Commonwealth’s coveted Management Advisory Services Panel, the majority Aboriginal-owned company used the platform to highlight its national foothold and track record in procurement, leadership and advisory work.

IPS co-founder Katina Law said Connect 2025 was an important stage for IPS as it cements its national footprint.

“This is not just about being seen — it’s about being part of a movement that’s reshaping the Australian economy,” said the Worrorra Walmajarri woman.

“At this stage of our growth, Connect 2025 gives us the opportunity to deepen partnerships, meet decision-makers face-to-face, and demonstrate how IPS can deliver value at scale across industries and regions.”

Asked about IPS’s role in the wider Indigenous business movement, she said the company was focused on leading by example.

“We see ourselves as both a service provider and an advocate.”

“Our responsibility is not only to deliver outstanding results for clients but to open doors for other First Nations businesses through collaboration and visibility.”
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“When we succeed, we create a platform that shows corporate and government Australia the depth of talent in this sector,” said Katina.
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Right: Katina Law

But challenges remain for Indigenous enterprises trying to break into lucrative procurement markets.

“Too often, First Nations businesses are still seen as ‘risky’ by major buyers,” said Katina.

“There’s a perception barrier, despite evidence showing Indigenous firms deliver innovation, sustainability and value for money.”

​“We need procurement processes that focus on outcomes and impact, not just compliance checkboxes.”

​Federal Indigenous Australians Minister Malarndirri McCarthy echoed that sentiment, telling delegates the Albanese Government was “deeply committed” to backing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses, describing the Indigenous Procurement Policy as a “game-changer”.

“This is about unlocking opportunity and building prosperity,” Senator McCarthy said.

“We must ensure businesses benefiting are genuinely Indigenous owned and controlled — because integrity matters, and every contract should build real capability and long-term success.”

Research unveiled at the conference underscored that message.

Supply Nation’s report, The Sleeping Giant Rises, found Indigenous-owned businesses create $42.6 billion in social value each year — with measurable benefits in employment, cultural pride and future aspirations for young people.
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For every $1 generated, $3.66 flows back into the wider economy.

From left: Katie Clarke, Cameron Wood, Colette McEntee

​Supply Nation CEO Kate Russell said those outcomes proved the Indigenous business sector was not a niche but “a powerhouse of innovation and sustainability”.

“This is prosperity over dependence, inclusion over exclusion,” Ms Russell said.

“The impact is profound — and it benefits all Australians.”

For IPS, the event was more than showcasing capability. The Perth-headquartered consultancy stressed the importance of partnerships that endure beyond compliance, working together with government, corporates and communities to deliver practical outcomes.

“This year’s Connect 2025 theme is Beyond the Horizon,” said IPS Executive Director and Noongar man, Cameron Wood.

“That’s what we’re focused on — building an economy where First Nations voices lead, and where our success contributes to Australia’s success.”

First Nations enterprises currently contribute $16 billion annually and employ more than 116,000 people.

Whilst noting that this is a fantastic achievement, Cameron said the challenge now is to scale up and continue the journey.
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An ANZ commissioned Deloitte Access Economics report estimated the sector is poised to grow to $50 billion a year by 2035.