A fashion designer, an iron woman and a trauma therapist are among the recipients of Ember Connect's first round of Game Changer Grants for 2024.

Ember Connect received 91 applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women seeking financial support across a variety of professional, cultural and personal enrichment activities.

Five Aboriginal women from around Australia have been announced as the R1 recipients, sharing $15,000 in funding between them.

The recipients are Kalani Ives of Queensland for an Iron Woman Series; Shanae McGuire of WA for Berry Street Education Model Training; Patricia (Trish) Ratajczak of WA for a Midwifery Conference; Rosie Lang of Queensland for Trauma EMDR Training; and Samala Cronin of Victoria, a Fashion Award Nominee needing to Attend Awards.

Ember Connect General Manager Narelle Henry said both the quality and quantity of applications for Round 1 2024 was outstanding.

"It has been such a privilege to review all of these applications and witness the contribution First Nations women are making to Australia," she said.

"Not only have we been able to support these five women with their goals, we have also been able to learn and grow from listening to their stories.

"Thanks to the support of BHP, a total of $50,000 in grants is being made available to Ember Connect members over the next 12 months and we look forward to uncovering more amazing women and their stories."

Round 2 of Game Changer Grants 2024 will support two Ember Connect members in the establishment of a new business or side hustle. Applications for Round 2 are now open and information is available online. Applications for round 2 close August 16.

Ember Connect provides an online platform where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women can network, share stories, learn, and make genuine connections with other women. Membership is free and Ember Connect has a growing membership base of more than 4,000 First Nations women and allies.