Commerce announces investments in Native American economic development services

From Montana Department of Commerce

HELENA — The Department of Commerce announced investments in eight tribal economic and business development organizations — one for each tribal government in Montana.

The investments, totaling $160,000, will support business services for tribal entrepreneurs through the Native American Business Advisors program at the Department of Commerce. Services available through the program include assisting tribal entrepreneurs in writing business plans, guidance for applying for the Indian Equity Fund Small Business Grant and other business-related counseling.

“Native American Business Advisors provide critical services for tribal businesses at every stage of development,” Commerce Director Tara Rice said. “These services assist entrepreneurs in building stronger, more resilient businesses while growing local economies in Indian Country.”

Each organization will receive $20,000 for the fiscal year, which ends June 30.

Funds will be awarded to the following organizations:

• Bear Paw Development Corp., Chippewa Cree Tribe — $20,000

• Fort Belknap Tribal Credit — Economic Development, Fort Belknap Indian Community — $20,000

• Great Northern Development Corp. Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes — $20,000

• NACDC Financial Services, Blackfeet Tribe — $20,000

• Native American Development Corp. Little Shell Tribe — $20,000

• People’s Partners for Community Development, Northern Cheyenne — $20,000

• Plenty Doors Community Development Corp. Crow Tribe — $20,000

• Tribal Economic Development Department, Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes — $20,000

“Native-owned businesses are emerging as the driving force of new entrepreneurs who are transitioning from cottage-based to a visible Main Street presence that is demand-driven and sustainable,” Mark Sansaver, financial officer for Great Northern Development Corp. said.

Learn more about the NABA program at http://indiancountry.mt.gov .