By Scout Nelson
The North Dakota Department of Commerce has awarded $600,000 through the Native American Small Business Support Program to help Native American-owned small businesses grow and strengthen their operations. The funding supports entrepreneurs across the state by providing financial assistance for business development, expansion, and long-term success.
The Native American Small Business Support Program was created through funding approved by the 69th Legislative Assembly. The program provides flexible financial support that allows business owners to invest in areas that best meet their business goals. These investments help improve business performance while creating positive economic benefits for local communities.
“Native-owned businesses play an important role in North Dakota’s economy and communities,” said Economic Development & Finance Deputy Director and Head of Investments and Innovation Shayden Akason. “These awards will help entrepreneurs invest in their operations, create new opportunities and build long-term sustainability for their businesses.”
The program supports many business needs, including working capital, equipment purchases, technology improvements, business expansion, workforce development, marketing, and other strategic investments. These improvements are designed to increase revenue, strengthen business operations, and improve long-term competitiveness.
Fifteen businesses received funding through the Native American Small Business Support Program. The recipients include Indigenized Behavioral Healing, Grey Willow Inc., ClearPath Behavioral Health LLC, Pemmican Patty Food Company, Inc., SkiJump Solutions, LLC, Warrior Energy, LLC, VerteBrey Chiropractic LLC, DeCoteau Trauma-Informed Care & Practice, PLLC, First Seven Stones, Miigwech Candle Co., LLC, Black Feather Construction & Fencing, LLC, The Fringe 17’ Boutique & Salon, YoungBird Family Funeral Homes, Tiwahe Media, and Lakeside Dental.
Each business will use the funding to support projects that improve services, strengthen operations, and encourage future growth. Throughout the grant period, recipients will report on project results and business impacts to demonstrate how the funding benefits their organizations and communities.
All awarded funds must be spent by June 30, 2027.
For more information about Commerce's business financing and grant programs, visit https://www.commerce.nd.gov/economic-development-finance.
Photo Credit: pexels-karolina-grabowska
Categories: North Dakota, Business, Government & Policy