Training Course
How To Start On-Country Enterprises With Indigenous Communities
Develop businesses that are sustainable, inclusive and profitable
Register Interest
Yes! I’m interested in participating in the course or in sponsoring a place for someone to attend. The course will be offered in August 2023.
Learn the 8-Step 'EMPOWERS' method for on-Country enterprise development.
Get access to tools and resources you can apply in the field.
Create a roadmap tailored to your context.
Engage with others facing similar challenges and be part of a supportive network of peers.
Carve out your own niche in this unique field.
Here's what we see practitioners facing when they're getting started:
Frazzled, overwhelmed and trying to "muddle through"
Feeling alone, isolated and apprehensive
Uncertain of the steps to take, which leads to project fragmentation, longer lead times, and loss of momentum
In our experience, people working in this field are highly capable. But many are learning the ropes the hard (and slow) way - by trial and error. Knowing what to expect and having a roadmap to follow can fast-track a lot of the "messy middle".
Who’s It For?
This course is aimed at early-to-mid career professionals who work in or with Indigenous organisations on enterprise development.
Understand what's involved - learn the framework that will shape and ground your thinking and help you know what to expect along the way.
Learn tricks of the trade - get access to tools, templates and resources.
Build practical skills - receive guidance and direction in what each step involves and how to adapt it to your situation.
Be supported - get help when you need it and build a supportive network of peers in this field.
FAQs
How long does it go for?
There are 8 learning modules spread out over 6 weeks. The week before the course starts, though, we’ll have an introductory session so you can get to know me, get to know each other, find out what to expect, and ask any questions.
What’s an on Country enterprise?
We use the term “on Country” enterprise to mean revenue generating strategies connected to place that are led by the Traditional Owners of that area. We sometimes use the terms “cultural enterprise” or “nature-based enterprise”. For us, it’s all the same thing - creating revenue on Country in ways that are sustainable, inclusive, culturally appropriate - and also profitable.
Who’s it for?
This course is aimed at early-to-mid career professionals who work in or with Indigenous organisations on enterprise development. Course participants may be employed by Aboriginal corporations, Land Trusts, Land Councils, NGOs, or government agencies. They may be in roles like Business Development Officer, Program Officer, Program Manager, etc. It’s also suitable for CEOs, Directors and committee members of Aboriginal corporations embarking on enterprise development.
But our situation is unique. How does this apply to us?
Every enterprise is different and each situation presents unique challenges. But most enterprise development projects follow a predictable path. And most practitioners who work in this space experience similar challenges along the way. Our approach supports communities to identify, plan, test and launch viable enterprises. We've captured the steps we use and created a course so others can learn the process and adapt it to their situation as they go.
What’s Ethical Republic?
Ethical Republic is a for-purpose agency that specialises in the conservation economy. We work with Indigenous and local communities to create cultural and nature-based enterprises alongside protected areas, heritage sites, trail destinations, and other environmentally and culturally significant areas. Using our field-based methods and tools, we help communities generate revenue that leads to jobs, income and an empowered future, reducing reliance on government grants.
Who’s delivering the training?
Emma Pethybridge is the course developer and lead trainer. She’s worked in sustainable livelihoods, conservation program design, strategy planning + management, and nature-based enterprise development for 20+ years, including 10 years with the Indigenous Land & Sea Corporation (ILSC), helping Traditional Owners acquire and manage Country and start land and sea based enterprises. She’s worked throughout Australia, Asia-Pacific, North America and the Middle East. Emma founded Ethical Republic in 2020 to find sustainable, scalable, inclusive, creative ways of unlocking value for communities to people and wild spaces can thrive.
What’s actually involved? How much time does it take?
It’ll take around 4 hours a week. The course content is pre-recorded and available to watch as short videos (approximately 45-60 minutes per module). We recommend you watch the videos first. Then, there’ll be a weekly live masterclass (via Zoom) to dive deeper into each module. We’ll also have a guest speaker each week to bring a different perspective on each topic. Finally, there are optional weekly accountability group meetings with your peers, and an optional live Q&A / “office hours” session, in case you are having any difficulties or just want to bounce an idea around. You’ll also get access to a resource library full of useful tools and templates you can use in your work.
When is it?
The course will be offered in August 2023, then annually after that. If there’s high demand, it may be offered up to twice per year from 2024 onwards.
How much does it cost?
The total value of the course is $5,600. However, it’s currently offered at $3,750 per person (+ GST). We are trying to secure funding so we can offer sponsored places for First Nations participants.
How do I join?
Pop your details in the form above to register your interest. We’ll be in touch shortly after with more details.
“My goal is to train the next generation of practitioners so that Indigenous communities starting on Country enterprises - and those supporting them - have the best chance of success.”