Celebrating Innovation and Growth at the 2024 Nation Building Business Conference
From August 21st to 23rd, Nimiipuu Community Development Fund hosted a transformative gathering aimed at fostering economic growth and entrepreneurship within our communities. From inspiring panels and impactful workshops to evenings filled with laughter and meaningful networking, the event truly embodied our shared vision for economic growth and entrepreneurship within our communities.
The conference not only provided a valuable platform for connection among our communities and partners but also ignited new conversations and collaborations. We hope these connections continue to flourish, amplifying the impact of our gathering in the months and years to come.
Our time together in August grounded us in our shared commitment and showcased the strength of our collective efforts. As we move forward, we are renewed and dedicated to building thriving, resilient communities. Thank you for being a part of this journey with us!
The collaboration between Indigenous Creatives and Nimiipuu Fund was marked by a special tee commemorating the 2024 Nation Building Conference. Proceeds from these tees support the Nimiipuu Fund’s efforts to sustain Native entrepreneurs. They are available for purchase online at Indigenous Creatives.
Conference Highlights
Day 1: Business Pitch Competition and Directory
The conference kicked off on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, with ‘Itamn’ áawit(Nez Perce Tribe) hosting a business graduation ceremony, followed by the relaunch of the 2025 Business Directory. This vibrant event featured opportunities for networking, celebration, and professional headshots provided by Indigenous Creatives. The energy quickly ramped up with the Business Pitch competition, presented in collaboration with Nimiipuu Fund and ‘Itamn’ aawit. Sixteen startup and existing businesses showcased their ideas, competing for cash prizes of up to $2,500.
Awards in the Start-Up Business Category:
- First Place: Aqua Greene, Greene Coffins
- Second Place & Fan Favorite: Tanesa Shippentower, True Beauty
- Third Place: Richard Axtell, Music Recording/Production
Awards in the Existing Business Category:
- First Place & Fan Favorite: Lydia Skahan, Wiyeepi’im: Empowering Cultural Preservation Through Art & Education
- Second Place: Mary Jane Oatman, Tribal Partnerships Logistics: Advancing Tribal Sovereignty in Trade and Commerce
- Third Place: Thea Skaliky, Skalicky’s Sweet Sensations Bakery: Tribally Owned Bakery in Downtown Lewiston
“Participating in the Nation Building Business Pitch Competition was a step out of my comfort zone, but it was incredibly rewarding. I am grateful for the support of my loved ones and this opportunity to showcase my vision for True Beauty. Thank you to everyone who supported me on this journey.”
-Tanesa Shippentower
The conference also highlighted the spirit of community and support through crowdfunding donations from Freedom Financial Strategies Orlando Garcia, Nez Perce Tourism & Traditions Gift Shop, Indigenous VC, Ol Style Fireworks, Ann McCormack, Solo Greene, James R. Spencer, Kermit Mankiller, and onsite donations collected in mason jars.
Day 2: Supporting Small Business Day
Thursday, August 22, 2024, was dedicated to supporting small businesses, powered by the U.S. Small Business Administration PRIME Program. Attendees participated in workshops and classes, including:
- University of Idaho Entrepreneurship Law Clinic
- Native Business Model Canvas Workshop
- Entrepreneurship on the Reservation
- Opportunities for Contractors
- Introduction to E-Commerce: Launching Your Online Store
- Bookkeeping 101
- Podcast Panel & Workshop
- Arts, Culture, and Fashion
- Model Workshop
The evening concluded with a Golf & Networking Night at the Red Wolf Golf Club, featuring presentations from various business and chamber representatives, including Presentations by Lewis-Clark Valley Chamber of Commerce, ‘Itamn’aawit Program Business Directory, Idaho Rez Rising, Washington Native American Chamber of Commerce and Northwest Native Chamber of Commerce, which is currently seeking representatives from the Nez Perce Tribe.
Golf Contest Winners:
- “Closest to Pin” and “Longest Putt”: Bob Thoen, Kermit Mankiller, Dominic Wheeler, William Bigman
Day 3: Tribal and Rural Economy Day
Friday, August 23, 2024, focused on Tribal and Rural Economy Day, offering panel discussions on key topics such as:
- Tribal Energy & Climate Initiatives
- State Small Business Credit Initiative for Idaho and Tribes
- Salmon & Subsistence
- Making Finance Deals Work and the Importance of Tribal Universal Commercial Codes
- Housing in Tribal and Rural Areas
- Philanthropy
- Economic Impact of the Five Tribes of Idaho Report
Celebrating Culture: Indigenous Revival Fashion Show
The conference concluded with the Indigenous Revival Fashion Show, a vibrant celebration of Native American culture through fashion. This event provided a platform for Indigenous creators to showcase their unique artistry and craftsmanship, strengthening community bonds and celebrating our rich heritage. Thank you to the talented designers, models, makeup artists Ella Clark and Emma Stroschein, the hairstyling team from Red’s Salon & Barbershop, Fashion Show Director Jacob Wallis, Model Director Celilo Miles, DJ Sub, and Moonlight Lighting A/V for their contributions.
A heartfelt thank you to all sponsors, participants, and organizers who made the 2024 Nation Building Business Conference a success. Special thanks to Chef Timena Shebala, the Clearwater River Casino Sales and Maintenance team, and all those who contributed to the event’s success.
For feedback and suggestions, attendees are encouraged to complete the conference satisfaction survey.
Conference Resources
The 2024 Nation Building Business Conference featured a wealth of resources aimed at supporting economic growth and sustainability within Indigenous communities. Attendees had the opportunity to explore the following programs and initiatives:
- Climate Capital Guidebook
- Clean Communities Investment Accelerator
- “Housing as a Cornerstone of Nation Building: Strong Tribal Housing Ecosystems” by Tonya Plummer
- Financial Deals with Oweesta
- NCDF Housing Survey Results for presentation at Nation Building Conference by Points Consulting
- Government Contracting Workshop by Two Rivers Community Development Corporation
- Native American Mortgage Matrix
- Funding Priorities Presented by Northwest Area Foundation
- U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Federal Program Updates for Native American Small Businesses
- Impact Investing: A Tool for Philanthropy and Tribes
- “The Economic Impacts of the Five Tribes on Idaho’s Economy” by Dr. Steve Peterson
- Entrepreneurship Law Clinic at University of Idaho
- Native Business Model Canvas workshop by Sister Sky
- Bookkeeping 101 by Redtail Accounting: Book a Free Consultation
- Covenant of the Salmon People
- Nez Perce Tribe Universal Commercial Code FAQ
- Shaw Law Group: Indian law on a national basis. We also practice in the fields of business law, real estate law, and personal injury law. Within these practice areas, we represent large and small businesses, tribal governments and agencies, start-up entities, and individuals from all walks of life.
- Native American Bank: To be the trusted Native-owned national bank committed to meeting your financial needs, as well as the financial needs of your business and your nation.
- NDN Fund: Pre-development, startup, bridge, and expansion loans and power-building resources to large-scale and regenerative Indigenous-led and community-based development projects and businesses.
- Mission Driven Finance
- Oweesta Corporation: Contact Jamie Olson for information about lending or startup resources for a Native CDFI.
- SSBCI: Financing available for tribal projects of small businesses by ATNI EDC or CEDA
- Free Business Technical Assistance in Idaho:
Contact Jill Bosich, SSBCI Manager at [email protected]