Difference Makers 2.0 is a new yearlong series that highlights how Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) work alongside their small business clients to accelerate change and create economic opportunities in Native communities. Join the Native CDFI Network and Tribal Business News as they shine a spotlight on the people accelerating change in Indian Country. Read their stories below and tune in to Difference Makers 2.0 or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Episode 2.6 | Wóyute: Four Bands Community Fund Incubates Traditional Grocer
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.
Episode 2.5 | INITIATING CHANGE: Wells Fargo and Native CDFI Network Partner to Bolster Economic Development for Native Americans in California, Nevada
Despite a Native American population of nearly 800,000, California and Nevada have only one certified Native CDFI. The Native CDFI Network and Wells Fargo are launching a year-long initiative to change that. Learn more from NCN CEO Pete Upton and Wells Fargo's Tim Rios on the Difference Makers 2.0 podcast.
Episode 2.4 | HARVESTING TRADITION: How Four Directions Development Corporation Helped Mi’kmaq Nation Expand a Fishery into an Enterprise
Polluted waters once limited the Mi’kmaq Nation's access to brook trout. A new fish hatchery and expansion, supported by Four Directions, a Native CDFI, boosts subsistence and economic development.
Episode 2.3 | Traditional Foods, Modern Business: Nixyaawii Community Financial Services Prepares Iniim Coffee Shop for Success
Nixyaawii Community Financial Services helped Umatilla Citizen Sadie Mildenberger turn her dream of owning a business that serves innovative dishes with traditional ingredients into a reality.
Episode 2.2 | From the Ground Up: Native CDFI Chi-Ishobak Helps Great Lakes Flooring Specialists Lay Foundation for Growth
Meet the Roberts family, owners of a Native-owned small business that found support in Chi-Ishobak, a Native CDFI, to grow their flooring business from a single hospital contract to a thriving regional company.
Episode 2.1 | A Recipe for Success: How NACDC Financial Services Helped Big Sky Cafe Serve Up Success
Discover how Gary and Sue Raccine's journey from a rejected loan to thriving entrepreneurship was fueled by NACDC Financial Services, empowering Native American business owners in Montana.