Adrian Appo returns to First Australians Capital as MD

Adrian Appo OAM, co-founder of First Australians Capital (FAC), has rejoined the organisation as Managing Director, Partnerships.

Appo's return to FAC follows his influential work at a private trust, where he played a key role in implementing a 10-year spend-down strategy that facilitated critical funding for Indigenous-led initiatives. Over the past four and a half years, he helped secure over AUD $250 million for First Nations projects, fostering collaboration within philanthropic sectors.

Appo's extensive experience in First Nations investment strategies and his established networks are viewed as vital assets for FAC's continued growth. His return signifies a strong recommitment to FAC's foundational values, which centre on advancing Indigenous entrepreneurship and creating sustainable economic impact.

"For me, returning to FAC is a full-circle journey," Appo stated. "As a co-Founder and as inaugural Board Chair, FAC's mission and values have always deeply aligned with my own, and I'm excited to reunite with Jocelyn King to take our work to the next level. With the relationships I've built over the last few years, I'm eager to bring new energy back to FAC, to expand our reach and impact, ensuring that Indigenous businesses have the resources, partnerships, and support they need to thrive."

FAC co-founder, Board Chair, and initial CEO, Jocelyn King, remarked on Appo's return, "Adrian's return brings a wealth of experience and strategic insight. His leadership will not only strengthen our commercial impact but also open new doors for partnerships and resources to accelerate the growth of Indigenous businesses."

Appo will collaborate closely with King and the FAC team to focus on enhancing access to capital, fostering innovation, and respecting the heritage and aspirations of First Nations communities.

The leadership at FAC anticipates that Appo's return will bolster its role as an advocate for Indigenous business growth and empowerment. Together, FAC and Appo aim to create a future where First Nations entrepreneurs can contribute significantly to their communities and the broader economy.

Appo previously served as the founding Chief Executive Officer at Ganbina, where he significantly impacted over 500 young Indigenous Australians by securing educational and career opportunities. He was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for his contributions to Indigenous youth and is acknowledged with the Centenary Medal and Defence Force Medal for service.

He currently holds the distinction of being the first Australian Board Member of the International Funders for Indigenous People and serves as one of three external board members of the Salvation Army board. His previous roles include founding Board member of both Children's Ground and the Australian Centre for Rural Entrepreneurship (ACRE), and he advises the Maniferra collective, a group of funders investing in First Nations-led organisations.