More than 20 Indigenous businesses and designers have been given one-off grants as part of a new program supporting First Nations fashion and textiles.

The grants of between $5000 and $25,000 are from the Australia Council’s new Flourish fund, which aims to encourage the growth of Indigenous design businesses.

Former AFL player Shauny Edwards, founder of the label House of Darwin, plans to use the grant to expand the label beyond the Northern Territory.

“The Flourish grant allows us to reach for the stars and try to take on the big brands around Australia and the world,” he said in a statement.

House of Darwin is a social enterprise that spends its profits on programs in remote Indigenous communities.

Founder of Gammin Threads, Tahnee Edwards, will use the cash to develop an accessories range.

“This investment supports the continued strength, flourishing and visibility of First Nations textile design and fashion and its important contribution to cultural expression,” Franchesca Cubillo from the Australia Council said.

Liz Hobday
(Australian Associated Press)