Indigenous cooperative development training launched in MN
By Lee Egerstrom A program to help train Native Americans capable of developing cooperative businesses and service enterprises has been launched in Minnesota, drawing potential developers and training talent from across “Turtle Island.” Leading the effort locally is Pamela Standing, co-executive director of programs and partnerships at Minnesota Indigenous Business Alliance (MNIBA), with partners from […]
New and revised directories make Native holiday shopping easier
By Lee Egerstrom Seasonal gift shopping has become easier for Native Americans wanting authentic Native products this holiday season and to learn more about the Native artists and shopkeepers. New and reformulated business directories have hit the market promoting literally hundreds of Minnesota-based Native artisans and other providers of personal and business services. Anchoring these […]
New rules for Buy Indian Act take effect May 9
By Lee Egerstom The U.S. Interior Department published final rules in April for its Buy Indian Act regulations, bringing closer to an end a process underway for about 20 years aimed at boosting business for tribal and Native-owned businesses. The rules go into effect on May 9. They are intended to promote economic opportunities in […]
Will COVID-19 emergency relief trickle down to Native entrepreneurs?
By Lee Egerstrom Native American entrepreneurs operate what clearly are small businesses – either alone or with family members and with no more than a handful of employees. Until now, they have mostly been out of sight. That might change as of April 23. Congress approved nearly $500 billion in fresh aid for small businesses, […]