DICE – bringing people forward

Ray Pratt is a proud Western Arrernte man from Alice Springs and the founder of DICE, a business delivering construction, electrical contracting, and renewable energy projects with an integrated approach on Larrakia Country, Darwin.

Ray’s journey into business was shaped early on by his hardworking parents – especially his father, whose entrepreneurial spirit inspired Ray. “Watching my old man build a business in remote areas and create opportunities … I wanted to do something similar,” Ray shares.

“Meeting kids my age who didn’t have the same opportunities made me realise the importance of bringing others forward – not just giving back.” DICE has trained many men and women in trades, project management, and contract administration. Ray is committed to building the next generation of leaders.

With a strong team of more than 80 staff including a strong Indigenous contingent – Ray credits his team and his family for enabling him to lead with purpose. “I might be the only owner, but I’m nothing without the team. And I certainly couldn’t do what I do without my amazing wife and kids.”

DICE uses an IBA offering that supports large-scale contracts via performance guarantees. “Without IBA, we wouldn’t be on the same growth trajectory. Their support increases our cash flow at the start of major projects. Cash is king – and IBA helps with that.”

Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs

Ray’s advice is grounded in experience:

• Be there on time, every time.
• Don’t be afraid to have a go – and don’t be afraid to fail.
• It’s also okay to be a vital cog in someone else’s business.
• And finally, "it’s a journey, and there will be sacrifices, but there’s great reward when it works.”

Watch Ray’s full story here.

*Important: in the video Ray speaks of bank bonds – Indigenous Business Australia offers performance bonds, rather than bank bonds. See here for more information: Performance Bonds - Indigenous Business Australia