28 October 2026, Toowoomba Showgrounds
DDSW First Nations Business Expo 2026 - Olympic and Procurement Showcase
Connect. Learn. Play. Grow.
The Darling Downs South West First Nations Business Expo is where business, culture and community come together. Connect with First Nations businesses, industry leaders, government agencies and major project partners. Explore Brisbane 2032 procurement opportunities, connect with major project partners and join guided tours of the Toowoomba Showgrounds to learn about planned upgrades and Olympic wide future work packages. Hear from inspiring speakers, discover local suppliers and build valuable business connections.
It's not all business.
Enjoy live cultural performances, traditional games, regional youth sporting showcases and activities that celebrate the talent, energy and future of our communities.
Whether you're looking to grow your business, build your network or simply be part of something inspiring, this is an event not to be missed.
Led by a collaborative working group of First Nations community representatives, community sponsors, government partners, and the Royal Agricultural Society of Queensland, the Expo shines a light on innovation, creativity, and resilience within our communities. By showcasing local success stories, creating pathways for growth, and fostering genuine partnerships, the event continues to build stronger opportunities for First Nations businesses to thrive and shape the future of the Darling Downs South West.
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Register to Attend
The Darling Downs and South West First Nations Business Expo will take place on 28 October 2026 at the Toowoomba Showgrounds, Toowoomba. Attendance is FREE, but registration is essential to secure your place.
Be Seen. Be Celebrated. Be Connected.
Whether you're a First Nations business, sole trader, start-up, community enterprise, buyer, government representative, support service or corporate ally, this is your opportunity to connect.
Showcase your products and services, discover new suppliers, build supply chain connections, explore procurement opportunities and grow your network. All industries are welcome.
Connect. Collaborate. Do business.
Meet First Nations businesses, discover new suppliers, build partnerships, explore procurement opportunities and connect with industry, government and community leaders.
Register now to exhibit, connect
and do business.
Event Program
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Attendees arrive, collect event materials and begin networking with exhibitors.
A relaxed setting to start building meaningful relationships and opportunities for collaboration.
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Creating Opportunities Through Procurement and Brisbane 2032 - upcoming opportunities for First Nations businesses across government, industry and major project supply chains.
Practical ideas, opportunities and connections to grow your business.
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Topics may include:
Procurement readiness
Capability statements
Working with major contractors
Government purchasing opportunities
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An inspiring panel of regional First Nations businesses Their business journey
Lessons learned
Procurement experiences
Advice for emerging businesses
Interactive audience Q&A included
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First Nations Special guest and keynote speaker
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A fast-paced sponsor showcase followed by dedicated expo networking time. Each sponsor has 3 minutes to share who they are, why they are backing the event and what opportunities they want to open up for regional First Nations businesses
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Play, connect and be inspired. Meet local clubs, try interactive activities and explore future opportunities in sport, health and community participation.
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A relaxed networking space to connect with First Nations businesses, buyers, industry, government and community. Build relationships, explore opportunities and start conversations that lead to partnerships, procurement and growth.
Master of Ceremony
Bo de la Cruz
Bo de la Cruz is a dual international athlete, Australia Touch Football Hall of Fame member, media personality and business owner with a strong profile across sport, culture and community leadership.
A proud descendant of the Gudjala people from the Charters Towers region and the Erubian people of Erub (Darnley Island) in the Torres Strait, Bo brings culture and lived experience to every platform she steps onto.
She is a commentator across multiple platforms including NITV, Kayo and Fox Sports, and the only female panelist on NITV’s weekly Indigenous Rugby League show, Over the Black Dot. Bo also hosts a podcast on the INsport platform focused on Murri Rugby League and the ABF Future Immortals Tour — all while proudly being a mum to her three children.
Bo is widely recognised for her ability to bridge grassroots communities and national conversations with purpose, clarity and connection.
Thank you to our 2026 Event Partners & Sponsors
“The Expo is a rare opportunity to connect directly with First Nations businesses, explore new partnerships, and gain practical insights into procurement and business development.”
— ASHLEY W. TOOWOOMBA SURAT BASIN ENTERPRISE
