MESA, AZ – The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development (The National Center) – a non-profit organization that assists tribes, tribally-owned businesses, and Indigenous entrepreneurs with business and economic development – has received a $500,000 philanthropic grant from the KeyBank Foundation.
This grant will be used to address economic challenges faced by Indigenous communities that are rooted in underrepresentation and systematic barriers to economic growth. Native-owned farms and small businesses are crucial to the well-being of these communities and face significant hurdles in competing with larger enterprises. Preserving and promoting Indigenous food systems, sustainable practices, and environmental stewardship will result in increased tribal integrity and resilience in Native communities.
In addition, this KeyBank Foundation grant will provide support for Native-owned farms, fisheries, and small businesses. Partnering with existing organizations, this grant will ensure Native entrepreneurs are equipped with the skills and knowledge to sustain their community and gain access to capital, which also promotes job creation and skills development for Native youth, entrepreneurs, and community members.
“The National Center is thrilled to continue our strong partnership with KeyBank Foundation,” said Chris James, President and CEO of The National Center. “KeyBank has been a longtime supporter of The National Center and played an instrumental role in the development and growth of the Native Edge Institutes. I know this new program will have a positive, and lasting, impact tribal food systems, Indigenous agriculture, and ultimately Indian Country’s economy.”
“Our partnership with The National Center is valued as we aim to help Native American tribes and businesses gain access to economic opportunity and growth,” said Ben Rechkemmer, Head and Managing Director of KeyBank Native American Financial Services. “This organization fits well with our mission of helping our clients and communities thrive by achieving greater economic stability.”
KeyBank was recently honored with The National Center Corporate Advocate of the Year award at the annual Reservation Economic Summit (RES) in Las Vegas in March. The award recognizes the leadership team of a corporation for demonstrating a sincere commitment to growing business opportunities for American Indian and Alaska Native-owned companies and bettering the economy of Indian Country for future generations.
