November is Native American Heritage Month and we at the NY & NJ Minority Supplier Development Council celebrate and honor the diverse and rich cultures, histories, traditions, and contributions of our Native American communities. We proudly advocate for Native-American business owners and entrepreneurs throughout the year. We believe it is equally important to pay tribute to the sacrifices and achievements they continue to make toward our mission of diversity and inclusion during native American Heritage Month.
According to U.S. Census Bureau statistics, Native American-owned businesses contribute more than $33 billion to the U.S. economy every year and employ more than 200,000 people. These minority business enterprise industries range from financial institutions and charter schools, to construction and gaming. Additionally, there are tens of thousands of Native-American solopreneurs who significantly impact our nation’s financial health and move our economy forward.
Despite these accomplishments, the number of Native American- and Alaska-owned businesses lags behind other ethnic- and white-owned businesses. In fact, according to the United States Census, of the more than 1 million businesses in the US with employees, only 2.4% are owned by Alaskans or Native Americans.
That’s where The Council and organizations like the SBA’s Office of Native American Resources come in. SBA business development programs, backed grant funding for both state and tribal administrations, microloans, and other tools and programs help Native Americans start and expand their businesses. The Council remains committed to providing the support, access to capital, and other technical assistance Native American and all minority-owned businesses need to thrive.
I invite you to join us in supporting Native-American-owned businesses. Diversify your supply chains and be sure to connect with our Council-certified Native-American MBEs.
Sincerely,
Terrence Clark