Purpose, Community and Enterprise - Exploring Social Enterprise Through a First Nations Lens

Purpose, Community and Enterprise - Exploring Social Enterprise Through a First Nations Lens is a practical guide developed by BlackCard in partnership with a First Nations Steering Committee.

The guide opens by acknowledging that many First Nations organisations already operate in ways that align with social enterprise principles, including reciprocity, care for Country, community accountability and intergenerational responsibility. It presents a visual framework comparing different enterprise models, from social enterprise to hybrid models, commercial businesses and not-for-profits, helping organisations reflect on where they currently sit and where they want to go.

A practical section on engaging with the social enterprise sector covers both opportunities and things to watch out for. Opportunities include networks, funding pathways, partnerships, and increased visibility. Red flags to look out for include tokenism, unpaid cultural labour, bypassing cultural authority, and processes that do not recognise First Nations governance or community benefit.

The guide closes with case studies of First Nations organisations creating impact through enterprise, including Yarn'n, Chocolate on Purpose, and Indigenous Futures Foundation, alongside practical next steps for organisations at different stages of their journey.