With the help of a Native CDFI, Oklahoma entrepreneur Kelly Price turned her grandmother’s frybread recipe into a thriving business, honoring Native traditions while building community through food.

At the 5th annual Native CDFI Summit in DC, leaders discussed their latest initiatives supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, from new business incubators to expanded loan funds, reinforcing that ‘you can’t have a community without small business.’

After working for nearly two decades as a paralegal, Rudy Serrano decided he needed a change. With support from Tigua Community Development Corporation, he launched Roadhouse Mobile RV Repair, turning his passion into a thriving business helping travelers on the road.

Native entrepreneur John Hillman partners with Spruce Root CDFI to launch Wilderness Island Tours, bringing authentic Alaska Native culture and wilderness experiences to Hoonah’s growing tourism industry while staying rooted in his homeland.

An Ahtna Athabascan baker switched from pre-med to pastries, building Arctic Moon Bakery into a thriving business that makes 6,000 treats weekly in Anchorage.

Winnebago chef Reggie Frazier turned his passion for cooking into a thriving restaurant with help from Ho-Chunk Community Capital, a Native CDFI. Learn how R-Eatz is feeding the community and inspiring other Native entrepreneurs.

Pete Upton, CEO of Native CDFI Network, shares insights on how Native CDFIs empower tribal self-sufficiency and sovereignty. Join him on Difference Makers 2.0 to hear inspiring stories of impact across Indian Country.

Tulalip Nation citizen Anthony Henry turned his passion for fishing into a successful business with the help of a Native CDFI named Pacific Northwest Tribal Lending.

Julie Painter, an Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians member, bought Visage Salon at 25 with help from Sequoyah Fund, Inc. Discover her journey from student to successful salon owner in the latest Difference Makers 2.0 story and podcast.

At Four Bands Community Fund’s incubation space, Wóyute Natural Foods & Apothecary brings traditional, whole groceries and food sovereignty to the Cheyenne River Lakota Reservation.