In an encouraging sign for gender inclusivity and entrepreneurship, five Papua New Guinean women entrepreneurs travelled to Melbourne in December 2025 to attend the World Indigenous Business Forum. The move underscores growing support for women-owned businesses in PNG and their role in expanding global networks.
The Forum provides a rare platform for indigenous business leaders to connect with international peers, investors and mentors — a valuable space for PNG entrepreneurs seeking exposure, mentorship, and access to new markets. For the participants, the experience offered more than networking: it cultivated ideas, collaboration opportunities, and inspiration to scale or improve their businesses.
This event also reflects a broader shift in Papua New Guinea’s business landscape, where women-founded enterprises are gaining visibility and recognition. As the government and private sector pay increasing attention to inclusive commerce, such participation can help pave the way for policies, financing and support frameworks that empower women-led businesses.
For the wider economy, the long-term hope is that these initiatives will boost diversity, innovation and resilience. By elevating women entrepreneurs and plugging them into global networks, PNG could see growth in sectors beyond traditional industries — including services, creative industries, agriculture, small-scale manufacturing, and social enterprise.
As PNG Women entrepreneurs return home, their experience at the World Indigenous Business Forum could serve as a springboard for new ventures, collaborations and growth, potentially reshaping how business is done in Papua New Guinea.
(As reported in EmTV); Photo courtesy EmTV website.
