Delivered a tailored digital growth strategy supporting First Nations entrepreneurs across Central Australia.
Dec 10, 2024
In 2021, I had the privilege of working as the Digital Growth Partner on the pilot delivery of the DKAccelerator, a First Nations entrepreneurship program developed by Desert Knowledge Australia (DKA). The six-month program was designed to support a cohort of incredible First Nations-led businesses across Central Australia, blending cultural safety with practical business coaching and digital capability building.
The DKAccelerator ran from May to November 2021, providing intensive business support to four selected Indigenous enterprises:
The program’s focus was holistic – from refining business strategies to boosting digital capability, improving operations, and developing marketing strategies tailored to each business's unique context.
Working remotely alongside Program Director and Business Coach Jamie Toyne, my role was hands-on and collaborative. Together, we embedded ourselves into the work teams of each business, building genuine relationships and providing tailored support week by week.
Each entrepreneur had a dedicated day with both Jamie and me. We worked as a team on everything from digital growth strategies to refining their online presence, brainstorming marketing ideas, or upskilling in new tools and technologies. These sessions were a mix of 1-on-1 coaching, practical implementation, and peer-to-peer leadership activities-sometimes on-country, sometimes at DKA’s Business & Innovation Centre in Alice Springs.
“I think when you’re working with First Nations people and First Nations businesses, relationships are really important. And it’s been great to work with two people that we could trust.”
- Jessica Wishart, CEO of Kere to Country
One of the most rewarding aspects was seeing each business tap into the ‘growth fund’-provided to build their digital capabilities. Whether it was upgrading systems, exploring new platforms, or refining their online storytelling, every business made significant leaps forward.
The program culminated with the participating businesses sharing their experiences on a panel at the 10th Aboriginal Economic Development Forum-a proud moment showcasing the momentum they’d built.
The pilot also formed part of a larger research project funded by the NT Government’s Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade, aiming to better understand how government services can support Indigenous entrepreneurs.
This project remains one of the most meaningful collaborations in my career. Working so closely with these entrepreneurs-learning from their resilience, creativity, and leadership-was a genuine privilege. It reinforced the importance of culturally safe, relationship-first approaches when it comes to supporting First Nations businesses.
The DKAccelerator’s success is a testament to what’s possible when tailored business support meets community-led innovation.
"I think when you’re working with First Nations people and businesses, relationships are really important. And it’s been great to work with two people that we could trust."
Jessica Wishart
CEO, Kere to Country