Billings, Montana – January 24, 2025 – Pete Upton, CEO of the Native CDFI Network (NCN), and Luke Robinson, CCIA Regional Coordinator, participated in the Native American Development Corporation’s (NADC) Tribal Energy Sovereignty & Green Energy Summit held from January 22-24, 2025, in Billings, Montana. The summit brought together key stakeholders, including industry leaders, policymakers, and energy experts, to discuss critical issues surrounding the transition to clean energy in Native communities.
Pete Upton, CEO of NCN, delivered the keynote address and expressed NCN’s commitment to Native CDFIs advocating for increased appropriations, building relationships with both federal agencies and foundations to further philanthropy. “Energy sovereignty is critical for the economic future and energy sustainability of tribal nations. This summit reinforces the need for collaboration, innovation, and sustained investments to ensure Native communities are at the forefront of energy diversity.”
During the summit, Upton toured the incredible work being done by Leonard Smith, CEO of the Native American Development Corporation (NADC) in Billings. Upton expressed his admiration for Smith’s accomplishments, saying, “It was truly inspiring to visit with Leonard and witness his calmness, vision, and the value he places on his entire team and the regional Native population. There are so many things NADC is doing, but most impressive was their newest project.” Since 2022, the NADC has been working to revitalize the Al Bedoo Shrine Auditorium, a 50,000 square-foot property that includes an auditorium, large rooms, a separate 5,000 square-foot shop, and a parking lot on a 5.46-acre lot. Today, NADC is transforming this building into a cultural center focused on Native American culture, wellness, and community engagement.
The property is now home to a medical clinic, behavioral health programs, sports and youth activities, as well as small business and life skills training. By repurposing the building, the NADC is not only preserving its historical significance but is also providing a vital resource for the entire community.
Upton also praised Lane Simpson and the NADC staff for putting together such a powerful event. “As I travel and put my boots on the ground across Indian Country, I am more and more impressed by the great work that is being done by so many remarkable Native CDFI leaders,” Upton said. “Their efforts are truly shaping the future of Indian Country.”
A core theme of the summit was the emphasis on job creation and economic development, which go hand in hand with the opportunities provided by the Clean Communities Investment Accelerator (CCIA) funds. The CCIA funds are crucial in supporting clean energy projects that not only drive the transition to renewable energy but also foster job creation and long-term economic stability in Native communities. By investing in energy projects, these funds create immediate and sustainable employment opportunities in industries like construction and energy services, benefiting local economies and individuals alike.
As Native communities continue to embrace energy sovereignty and green energy solutions, the impact of the CCIA funds extends far beyond energy production. They provide a catalyst for community growth, infrastructure development, and capacity building. Native-owned businesses and tribal enterprises are positioned to thrive in this emerging clean energy economy, which aligns directly with the goals of the Native CDFI Network to foster economic resilience and financial independence within tribal communities.