“This toolkit shares the findings of NCAI’s “Building Tribal Economies” research and outreach initiative, which works to train the focus of Tribal Nations on the strategic, foundational considerations involved with building integrated and resilient tribal economies capable of supporting their communities and citizens today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.”
This first section of the track underscores the foundational elements of economic development plan implementation, including a qualified workforce/labor pool, an entrepreneurial ecosystem, and the primary infrastructure necessary to support economic activities.
This session featured the presentation of two unique funding mechanisms for supporting community economic development in tribal and Native communities, including Section 105(l) leases and Treasury’s State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSCBI), as well as an introduction to some useful tools and Resources the EDA offers for underserved communities
The first training in the CoP’s 9-part series of a variety of topics across Indian Country. Cris Gastner and Kevin Klingbeil from Big Water Consulting led a discussion and exercises about the foundations and essential components of CED in Indian Country and an introduction to CED planning.
The discussion centered around how project leaders identified a need for the facilities in their communities, how they secured funding, and the impacts the health centers will have and are having on community economic development. Experts also discussed how the 105(l)-lease program can help fund and support Native health centers.
Food security among American Indian/Alaska Native families living in urban areas is often overlooked, as many mistakenly believe that AI/AN people live predominantly on reservation lands. This article discusses missing local-level data on food access and addressing data violence to strengthen policies to lessen food insecurity and health disparities.
The Ute Mountain Ute Tribe (UMUT) known as the Weenuche Band of The Ute Nation, based in Towaoc, Colorado, has over 2,000 tribal members and is advancing food sovereignty and entrepreneurship. The Tribe will create a market that will provide healthy food options to locals and advance job opportunities.
The Indian Community Development Block Grant (ICDBG) Program provides direct grants for development such as decent housing, suitable living environments, and economic opportunities in American Indian and Alaska Native Communities. Projects funded by the ICDBG program must principally benefit low-and-moderate income persons.
The USDA Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant program provides grants and affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas including Tribal communities.
Quinault Indian Nation has had a deep connection to the ocean and ocean life for countless generations. Today, the nation and its members are using their natural resource and traditions for economic growth.