Empowering women entrepreneurs by breaking barriers down in Western Sydney
Western Sydney University is driving inclusive innovation by equipping women and multicultural entrepreneurs with the skills, confidence, and connections to launch successful businesses.
Through an innovative pilot program led by the University’s business incubator Launch Pad and supported by a NSW Department of Education grant, women and multicultural entrepreneurs in Western Sydney are gaining critical entrepreneurial skills and the confidence to turn their ideas into reality.
Lucy Lin, Program Lead and Entrepreneur In Residence, highlighted the Women & Multicultural Program pilot’s commitment to driving inclusive innovation and financial empowerment. She said this International Women’s Day, it was important to reflect on the women who are determining their own future – one business at a time.
“When women have the opportunity to work for themselves, they can earn their own money to gain financial independence – whether that’s escaping from domestic violence situations as an example, or time freedom as they can work flexibly when caring for young children or older parents, or simply having the freedom to pursue their passion,” said Ms Lin.
"We are extremely proud of the diverse founder's program we have developed for the women and culturally and linguistically diverse students and community in Western Sydney and beyond.”
Western Sydney is Australia’s third-largest economy, generating $150 billion in economic output, and is one of the country’s fastest-growing, most culturally diverse regions. The program reflects this diversity.
Workshops have been hosted across the University’s campus network in Western Sydney, including in Liverpool and Bankstown and at Fairfield Connect, ensuring accessibility for migrant communities, where entrepreneurship can serve as a powerful tool for economic empowerment.
Over 18 months, the program delivered 13 interactive workshops, attracting 1,489 registrations and 633 attendees, while distributing $152,000 in grant funding to help founders bring their business ideas to life. The pilot program successfully reached a diverse group of participants, with 65 per cent being women, representing 49 multicultural backgrounds and 153 NSW postcodes, demonstrating its broad access and impact. Participants have also benefited from insights shared by 35 diverse speakers, including successful entrepreneurs who have turned their ideas into thriving ventures.
Among the university students who took part, 74 per cent were female, while half were the first in their family to attend university. Additionally, 53 per cent were undergraduate students eager to explore entrepreneurship as a career path or side hustle.
For business owner and creative, Louisa Chan, the support the program provided was pivotal in her journey as an entrepreneur. A Master of Art Therapy student at the University, Louisa’s work combines neuroscience, psychology, and creative expression, proving that art can truly heal, empower, and build community. She owns her own business.
“The Women & Multicultural Grant was a turning point for me. Not only did it provide much-needed financial support, but it also validated my vision – proving that creativity and entrepreneurship can go hand in hand,” said Louisa.
“Through a range of programs offered by the University, I connected with like-minded entrepreneurs, learned how to structure my business, and gained the support needed to keep moving forward. The grant was not just about funding – it was about recognition, mentorship, and the belief that my work matters.”
Louisa said the $10,000 grant was truly a game-changer, and allowed her to expand her business, develop new programs, and invest in creative community initiatives that would have otherwise taken years to build.
“A huge part of my work focuses on empowering women through art therapy. I’ve worked with women who have experienced burnout, trauma, chronic illness, and major life transitions, and I’ve seen firsthand how creativity can bring renewal and healing.”
By breaking down barriers and fostering innovation, Western Sydney University’s Women & Multicultural Program is paving the way for a more inclusive and empowered future – where women entrepreneurs can thrive on their own terms.
In April, the university will celebrate these achievements through the Western Sydney Diversity in Entrepreneurship Awards, recognising the outstanding female founders making a difference in Western Sydney and beyond.
ENDS
5 March 2025
International Women's Day 2025
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