Northwest Native Economic Summit and Fashion Show
2024-10-16 - 2024-10-18
October 16-18, 2024
Portland, OR
This 3-day gathering focused on business networking, information sharing and capital access resources for the Tribal communities across the Northwest and beyond. Programming will highlight key areas of interest within economic development in Indian Country. We invite Tribal leaders, enterprise managers, economic development professionals, funders and Native entrepreneurs to come together with illuminating panels, speakers, and ample networking opportunities to galvanize the relationships of those building economic prosperity throughout Indian Country.

NW Native Fashion Show
2024-10-17 19:00 - 22:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
The 3nd annual NW Native Fashion Show features emerging Native Designers and Creatives from all over the Pacific Northwest. Join us for our showcase of amazing Indigenous talent, special performances, tasty food, drinks and fun at the Redd East Event Center in Portland OR on October 17th from 7pm-10pm (doors open at 6:45pm). The teams at Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Economic Development Corporation (ATNI-EDC) and Nixyaawii Community Financial Servcies (NCFS) have worked closely to specially curate a Fashion Show production starring Native-owned businesses from the backstage to the runway. We look forward to hosting you at our Native-made Fashion Show!
As the only Native Non-profit Community Development Financial Institutions in Oregon, this event encapsulates our shared mission to empower and uplift Native Entrepreneurs on new and innovative platforms. This is a reception and networking event for registrants and small businesses gathering for the NW Native Economic Summit, so feel free to dress to impress.

Medicare 101 Workshop
2024-10-20 18:00 - 20:00
Are you approaching the age of 65, or are you assisting family members with their retirement plans? This workshop is tailored for you. A representative from the Idaho Department of Insurance SHIBA will be present to elucidate Medicare and its various components, address any questions you may have, and demystify this healthcare program. In just two hours, you will gain access to valuable resources, receive program updates, and attain peace of mind knowing that you are on the right track.
Register in advance for this FREE Workshop: http://tinyurl.com/OctMedicare
Attend online via Zoom or in person. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Questions? Contact Karen (208) 883-2241 or krichel@uidaho.edu

Homebuyer Education
2024-10-22 17:00 - 2024-10-24 21:00, 2024-12-10 17:00 - 2024-12-12 21:00 | Lapwai, Lapwai
Discover the intricacies and advantages of home ownership, along with the associated responsibilities and maintenance considerations. This comprehensive guide covers a range of topics, including the significance of budgeting and savings, strategies for improving credit, calculating affordability, navigating tribal land issues, exploring program and loan options, understanding the steps involved in the loan and construction processes, and receiving tips for home improvements and post-purchase upkeep. Gain valuable insights into every aspect of the home buying journey. RSVP with Sonya: 843-2229 or
sonyas@ nezperce.org.

Be Lender Ready: What a Lender is Looking For to Approve Your Loan
2024-10-24 12:00 - 13:30
Are you an aspiring entrepreneur looking to secure funding for your business idea? Do you want to understand how to craft a compelling business plan that stands out to lenders? Join us for a free exclusive workshop designed to guide you through the key components that make a business plan and financial projections irresistible to lenders!

Medicare Workshop
2024-10-24 18:00 - 20:00
October 24, 2024 | 6-8 PM
Latah County Fairgrounds
Are you nearing 65 or have family members that you are trying to help with their retirement plans? This is the workshop for you. An Idaho Department of Insurance SHIBA representative will be here to explain Medicare and all its parts, answer questions, and de-mystify this healthcare program for you. In two hours, you will receive helpful resources, program updates and peace-of-mind that you are on the
right track.

Gov’t Contracting: 8a, HUB Zone, Mentor-Protégé
2024-11-01 10:00 - 11:00
November 1, 2024 | 10-11 am
Join Two Rivers Community Development Corporation as they explore the impact of Opportunity Zones on tribal revenues, unique access and advantages for tribes, and strategies for leveraging these zones to drive growth and profits.

Washington Native American Chamber of Commerce Meet & Greet
2024-11-01 12:00 - 13:00
Business & Associate members will give brief introductions of their business or organization and why they joined. Learn about this new Chamber from our board members. This event is complimentary. Non-members are welcome. Registration required.

Post Purchase Class
2024-11-06 17:00 - 19:00 | Lapwai, Lapwai
Homeowners facing financial challenges often find themselves in the need to recalibrate their budgets, revisit savings strategies, and address rehabilitation improvements and ongoing maintenance. The intricacies of avoiding foreclosure become a focal point, prompting individuals to consider whether refinancing is a prudent option. Navigating these aspects requires a thoughtful and informed approach to ensure the longevity and stability of homeownership. RSVP with Sonya at 843-2229 or e-mail sonyas@ nezperce.org.

Business Model Canvas Creation
2024-11-07 12:00 - 13:00 | Nez Perce Tribe Boards and Commissions Building, 210 A Street, Lapwai, Idaho
November 7, 2024 | 12 – 1pm PST
Learn how to craft a business model canvas to help shape the future of your business! This workshop will guide you in outlining key elements like value propositions, customer segments, and revenue streams, all essential for strategic planning and growth. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your entrepreneurial skills and contribute to local economic development! Attend in-person (Lapwai, Idaho) or online via Zoom.

Gov’t Contracting: Challenges
2024-11-08 10:00 - 11:00
November 8, 2024 | 10-11 am
Join Two Rivers Community Development Corporation to explore strategies for leveraging tribal locations, expanding capacity and capabilities, enhancing management skills, and advancing marketing and client development.

Boots to Business
2024-11-12 08:00 - 16:00 | Lewis-Clark State College, 500 8th Street, Lewiston, ID, 83501, United States
November 12, 2024 | 8 am – 4 pm
Lewis-Clark State College, Lewiston, ID
The curriculum provides assistance to those interested in exploring business ownership or other self-employment opportunities by leading participants through the key steps for evaluating business concepts and providing foundational knowledge required to develop a business plan. Participants are introduced to a broad spectrum of entrepreneurial business concepts and resources available to access start-up capital, technical assistance, contracting opportunities, and more

Gov’t Contracting: Partnering
2024-11-15 10:00 - 11:00
November 15, 2024 | 10-11 am
Join Two Rivers Community Development Corporation to explore strategies for finding and vetting partners, understanding teaming versus joint ventures, and preventing or managing internal conflicts.

Value Added Producer Grant Workshop
2024-11-19 09:00 - 12:00
November 19, 2024 | 9 am – 12 pm PT
Free Virtual Workshop
The Value Added Producer Grant (VAPG) from USDA helps agricultural producers enter into value-added activities related to the processing and marketing of new products. Carlotta Donisi from USDA Rural Development will provide an overview of the program and how to prepare your application. Melissa Moeller, a grant writer and previous VAPG recipient, will share tips and tricks for a successful application. This workshop is organized by Northwest Agriculture Business Center.

Cybersecurity Workshop
2024-11-20 09:00 - 12:00
November 20, 2024 | 9 AM-12 PM PST
Pullman, WA
Join the Washington SBDC for a three-hour cybersecurity workshop designed to help you safeguard your business during the holiday season. Learn from experts how to protect your business assets, customer data, online presence, and reputation against scams and cyber threats. The workshop will cover topics such as spotting holiday scams, principles of cybersecurity, secure banking practices, storing sensitive information, and creating policy and procedure documents.

Breakfast with Beto
2024-11-21 09:30 - 11:00
November 21, 2024 | 9:30 AM PST
Would you like to hear how other small business owners are preparing for the holiday season? Join SBA for the next “Breakfast with Beto!” to learn how successful retailers, eateries and other companies set themselves up for a festive – and lucrative – holiday rush. We’ll be chatting with Colleen Echohawk, CEO of Eighth Generation, a Native-owned lifestyle brand based in downtown Seattle and with a strong online presence. Colleen also serves as a voice for Pacific Northwest small businesses on the SBA’s Regulatory Fairness Board.

Indianpreneurship
2024-11-21 17:30 - 2024-12-19 19:30
November 21 & 26, December 3 & 19, 2024 | 5:30-7:30 PM PST
Join us on a unique journey into Native American entrepreneurship led by Roxanne Best, an experienced Native American entrepreneur and coach. In this hands-on virtual workshop series, you’ll gain the tools, knowledge, and inspiration to build your business plan from the ground up. Over four transformative workshops, you’ll develop your ideas, create actionable steps, and complete a business plan that reflects your unique vision. Limited to just 15 participants, this intimate setting ensures personalized guidance and support. Plus, complete all four workshops and submit your business plan for a chance to win a marketing and business package valued up to $1,500!

Gov’t Contracting: Eligibility and Certification
2024-11-22 10:00 - 11:00
November 22, 2024 | 10-11 am
Join Two Rivers Community Development Corporation to explore topics on sovereignty, council requirements, and individual responsibilities.

Native Business Canvas Workshop
2024-11-25 09:00 - 16:00 | Clearwater River Casino Miyo’oxat Room, 17500 Nez Perce Rd, Lewiston, ID, 83501, United States
November 25, 2024
Clearwater River Casino, Lapwai, ID
Sister Sky Inc. returns with their Native Business Canvas Workshop! If you missed it last time, now’s your chance to join this valuable business planning class. Have a great business idea but unsure where to begin? The Native Business Canvas simplifies a traditional business plan into nine key concepts, offering a culturally adapted, easy-to-follow approach. Space is limited—sign up today!

Bridging the Generational Gap
2024-12-05 12:00 - 13:00 | Nez Perce Tribe Boards and Commissions Building, 210 A Street, Lapwai, Idaho
December 5, 2024 | 12-1 pm PST
Lapwai, Idaho & Virtual

Explore how Gen Z and Millennials are transforming today’s workplaces in this interactive workshop. We’ll dive into the unique perspectives, values, and skills these generations bring and discuss strategies to bridge generational differences. Learn how to foster collaboration, enhance communication, and create a thriving, inclusive work environment that leverages the strengths of all generations. Attend in-person (Lapwai, Idaho) or online via Zoom.

Is a Small Farm in Your Future?
2024-12-06 09:00 - 12:00
December 6, 2024 | 9-12 PM PT

Interested in starting a small farm in the city, suburbs or country? Wonder what it would take, and if you’re ready? Whether you’re in the planning stages or have just begun, this 3 hour intensive workshop will help you determine what options are available for you, explore potential markets and profitability for different enterprises, network with others and learn what it takes to begin and sustain a small-scale farming business.

Building an Industrial Hemp Industry Webinar
2024-12-11 13:00 - 14:00
December 11, 2024 | 1 PM PST

This webinar is intended to provide an overview of the various business programs at USDA that can help build the growing industrial hemp industry. Viewers will have the opportunity to connect with program experts across the Department to learn more about what financial and technical resources are available and how to access them. Viewers will hear from the following agencies within USDA, including Rural Business Cooperative Service, Office of the Chief Scientist, Agricultural Marketing Service, Farm Service Agency, Risk Management Agency and Foreign Agricultural Service.

Emerging Justice Fund Grant Info Session
2024-12-11 15:00 - 17:00
December 11, 2024 | 3PM PST

The Emerging Justice Fund will move unrestricted funds to resource grassroots organizing for communities that have been and continue to be targeted by Federal, State and Local policies. Aligned with SJF’s intention to continue to move resources to groups that are most under-represented in traditional grantmaking, the Emerging Justice Fund will resource organizations that are Black, Indigenous, or People of Color-led. Funding decisions will be made every other month starting in February 2025 (Apr, Jun, Aug, Oct)

Spending Frenzy
2024-12-17 08:00 - 10:30 | Lapwai, Lapwai
December 17, 2024 | 8-10:30 AM
Lapwai High School, Lapwai, ID
We’re excited to be back with the Lapwai High School Senior Class of 2025 for another Spending Frenzy event! Students will enjoy a fun, hands-on experience managing $50,000 in simulated funds as they navigate decisions on spending for vehicles, homes, food, and more—learning how to handle per capita payments, minor’s distributions, seasonal income, or other large lump sums. Join us as a volunteer for this engaging event! For questions, please contact Heewekse Wisdom at 208-621-4847 or heewekse@nimiipuufund.org.

Preparing Taxes for the Self Employed
2024-12-17 12:00 - 13:00 | Nez Perce Tribe Boards and Commissions Building, 210 A Street, Lapwai, Idaho
December 17, 2024 | 12-1 pm PST
Lapwai, Idaho & Virtual

Join Marisa Danley of Inclusion Tax Services for an insightful, hour-long virtual workshop designed to demystify self-employment taxes and help you better manage your financial responsibilities. This webinar will walk you through everything from understanding your tax obligations to maximizing your deductions. Whether you’re a freelancer, small business owner, or creative entrepreneur, this workshop is packed with practical tips to help you take control of your taxes with confidence. Attend in-person (Lapwai, Idaho) or online via Zoom.

Choosing a Business Structure
2024-12-18 12:00 - 13:00
December 18, 2024 | 12 PM

This session will cover an important part of starting a business: choosing a business structure. In this time together, we will provide a brief overview of the common business structures and important considerations that will help you choose a business structure that fits you best.
Presenter: Molly Sullivan, Griffin-Hammis Associates
CART closed captioning and ASL Interpretation will be provided.

Holiday Popup 2024
2024-12-19 09:00 - 15:00 | Pi-Nee-Waus Community Center, 504 Main St S, Lapwai, ID, 83540, United States
This holiday season, celebrate and support Indigenous artistry at Nimiipuu Fund’s Holiday Pop-Up Market! Join us for a unique shopping experience featuring the incredible work of Native artists and makers, where you’ll find one-of-a-kind gifts that honor both tradition and modern creativity.
Each purchase supports Native artisans and helps sustain Indigenous craftsmanship, culture, and economic growth. Every piece tells a story, making it not just a gift but a meaningful way to connect with and uplift Indigenous communities.
Come and discover beautiful, handmade treasures while supporting a cause that celebrates Native talent and community spirit. Mark your calendar and make this holiday season memorable by giving gifts that give back. We can’t wait to see you there!

Seeking Native Artists
We’re looking for talented artists whose work reflects the beauty and cultural significance of Native traditions, as well as those whose creations embody contemporary styles and interpretations. Sign up online to reserve your booth space!

Idaho Business Builder Grant
2025-01-06 - 2025-01-15
Applications Due January 15, 2025

The NWRM RFBC Idaho team is offering grants between $3,000 and $15,000 that are designed to support small to mid-scale Idaho food and farm businesses, and to get locally produced food into local markets by strengthening food supply chains. Your Idaho-based farm, ranch, or value-added food business may be eligible for this program. It is designed for farms and ranches in Idaho, as well as small to mid-scale businesses that meet the following criteria: (1) they are located in Idaho, and (2) they source from local or regional producers within a 450-mile radius of their business.

Folk & Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Grant
2025-01-06 - 2025-01-31
Applications Due January 31, 2025

The apprenticeship program supports mentor artists who teach motivated learners the ways of valued community traditions. The purpose of the grants is to elevate skills and preserve cultural continuity in occupational, ethnic, or familial communities. Award amount: $3,000 to mentor practitioner.
