GNDC Receives Funds For Tribal Economic Development

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

Great Northern Development Corporation, on behalf of the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes, will receive $20,000 as part of the project.

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,” said commerce director Tara Rice. “These services assist entrepreneurs in building stronger, more resilient businesses while growing local economies in Indian Country.”

“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,” said Mark Sansaver, financial officer for Great Northern Development Corporation.

Funding was also awarded to: Bear Paw Development Corporation (Chippewa Cree Tribe) - $20,000 Fort Belknap Tribal Credit - Economic Development (Fort Belknap Indian Community) - $20,000 NACDC Financial Services (Blackfeet Tribe) - $20,000 Native American Development Corporation (Little Shell Tribe) - $20,000 People’s Partners for Community Development (Northern Cheyenne) - $20,000 Plenty Doors Community Development Corporation (Crow Tribe) - $20,000 Tribal Economic Development Department (Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes) - $20,000 Learn more about the NABA program at indiancountry. mt.gov.