An Entrepreneurship Enhancement Program for Native Businesses in New Mexico
Video from UNM Rainforest about the NMTEEP Program
The New Mexico Tribal Entrepreneurship Enhancement Program (NMTEEP) ran by UNM RainForest seeks to create broader opportunity, wealth and job growth through enhancing entrepreneurship in tribal communities throughout New Mexico. The program is creates authentic and sustainable relationships with New Mexico tribal communities and entrepreneurs
This program is funded by the American Rescue Plan Economic Adjustment Assistance (ARPA) grant administered by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA).
The NMTEEP works through these key components below:
Tribal Liaisons
The tribal liaisons serve as navigators, dedicated mentors, and connection points for entrepreneurs within tribal communities across the state. They support entrepreneurs by engaging in one-on-one interviews and discovery sessions where they identify needs and barriers that exist for tribal entrepreneurs.
Entrepreneurial Training
Based on barriers and needs assessed during discovery sessions, tribal liaisons develop pathway opportunities for each entrepreneur by referring them to existing programs within the NM Rainforest Entrepreneurial Ecosystem.
The Entrepreneur's Journey
In addition to discovery appointments and entrepreneurial training resources, the NMTEEP seeks to tell the story of “The Entrepreneur’s Journey,” specifically that of the Native American and tribal entrepreneur. This storytelling takes place through live video fireside chat interviews and podcasts featuring successful Native American entrepreneurs from New Mexico.
Entrepreneurial Connection Events
Tribal Liaisons work together with the Program Manager and other partners within the various tribal communities to spearhead “Entrepreneurial Connection” events to highlight entrepreneurs from tribal communities, showcase their companies, feature role models, and generate relationships and community in an effort to nurture rural and tribal entrepreneurial ecosystems.