The island's economy is dominated by a diverse range of primary production activities (including cropping, grazing, horticulture, forestry, fishing and aquaculture) and value-added products such as wine, cheese, marron, olive oil and Ligurian honey and many more. The island's clean, green reputation underpins these industries.

Kangaroo Island is also a popular destination for local, national and international visitors. Only 15 kilometres from the South Australian mainland, the island offers opportunities to see wildlife (including rare species) in natural habitats, spectacular coastlines and bush landscapes, and to enjoy a rural experience shaped by the island's isolation, small population and heritage.

These two industries represent the main Kangaroo Island economic drivers reflected in the establishment of key industry groups providing services and support to businesses operating in these areas.

Tourism KI seeks to build and sustain an enduring tourism industry that provides exceptional experiences for visitors and respects and protects our natural, cultural and community values. 

Agriculture Kangaroo Island Inc. is the peak primary producers organisation on the Island with a charter is to represent all primary industries on the Island and ensure a united community voice.

Kangaroo Island Food and Wine Association supports food and wine businesses to connect, develop and grow. Recently awarded $23,000 in funding as part of the State Government's new $600,000 Regional Wine Industry Association Grants Program, the Kangaroo Island Food and Wine Association was formed in 2012 from the merger of previous food and wine industry bodies. They are managed by a board representing a spectrum of the membership, which ranges from large commercial producers, to boutique makers, hotels, restaurants, cafes and wineries.

For the remainder of busineses including a healthy building and construction, retail and personal services sector Business KI seeks to further the economic development and prosperity of Kangaroo Island businesses. The group seeks to act as a voice for all businesses and to be a positive advocate for the future direction and opportunities on Kangaroo Island.

Authentic Kangaroo Island is a brand owned and managed by the Kangaroo Island Business & Brand Alliance, a not-for-profit incorporated body, with a charter to undertake initiatives which foster, collaborate for and generate a measurable difference to Kangaroo Island's economic prosperity.

The Kangaroo Island Business & Brand Alliance owns the "Authentic Kangaroo Island" and "Proudly Kangaroo Island"  trustmarks and approves licenses use of the brand. The Alliance also manages financial resources for collaborative projects, guides strategies and implements major initiatives to support each of the region's key industries (developed in collaboration with the region's representative industry associations).

Activities of the Kangaroo Island Business & Brand Alliance are managed by a Board. Members are elected by members at the Annual General Meeting.