Thrive is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to assisting refugees and asylum seekers to become financially independent by starting or growing their own small businesses.

Since 2017, over 1500 refugees seeking or considering starting a small business have accessed support from Thrive. Of that, over 500 businesses have started, contributing to the Australian economy. Thrive have provided over $10 million in financing ranging from $10,000 up to $50,000 per loan.

“Thrive provides help and direction for people who really want to work. When you’re new in Australia, you can’t wait for work to come to you – you need to seek it out and be prepared to work hard. Thrive supports us to find and use what we already have inside us.”

Sarmad, Thrive supported business owner

Thrive can support you to start and grow your business

Personal consultation

  • What are your goals?

  • Is starting and operating a small business right for you? Do you have the knowledge and skills?

  • We can help you think through whether you should start a business.

Business planning

  • If you are ready to start a business, we can work with you to evaluate the type of business, viability and finance requirement.

  • We can provide assistance in preparing a business plan and cash flow.

Business finance

  • If business finance is required, we can provide business loan amounts between $10,000 and $50,000, terms and conditions based on individual circumstances.

Ongoing support

  • Mentoring may continue well beyond the start-up period, and through business establishment and maintenance as needed.

  • This is provided either internally by Thrive staff, skilled volunteers or through program partners.