Strengthening Our Lending Capacity Through Training

In May of 2026, Nimiipuu Fund’s lending team completed intensive Loan Portfolio Management training hosted by Oweesta Corporation in Spokane, Washington. Congratulations to Loan Officers Jamison Hopkins and Anthony Spencer for representing Nimiipuu Fund and investing in professional development that strengthens our ability to serve clients and communities.

Over several days, participants from across Indian Country gathered to deepen their understanding of effective loan portfolio management, including portfolio monitoring strategies, risk management, borrower relationships, and best practices for maintaining healthy revolving loan funds. The training also provided valuable opportunities to connect with peers, share lessons learned, and collaborate on approaches to expanding access to capital in Native communities.

A special highlight of the week was the opportunity for the Oweesta lending team and Nimiipuu Fund lending team to stop by Indigenous Eats restaurant and food truck — one of Nimiipuu Fund’s valued loan clients. It was a meaningful reminder of capital at work and how investments ripple through communities. From capital and training support provided by Oweesta to Native CDFIs like Nimiipuu Fund, and then reinvested into entrepreneurs through lending, the impact extends far beyond a single transaction. Supporting Indigenous-owned businesses like Indigenous Eats demonstrates how access to capital can strengthen local economies, create opportunity, and celebrate Native entrepreneurship.

At Nimiipuu Fund, continued learning helps ensure we provide strong, responsible, and culturally grounded lending services to support entrepreneurs, homeowners, and families. We are proud of Jamison and Anthony for their commitment to growing their expertise and bringing back new knowledge that will benefit the communities we serve. Thank you to Oweesta for creating meaningful opportunities that strengthen Native CDFIs and the important work happening across Indian Country.