We Mean Business
Welcome to the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development
Since 1969, the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development has been a driving force for the advancement of Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses. Through training, programming, and subject-matter expertise, The National Center has become the preeminent non-profit in the United States focused on the American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian economies.
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We have the programming to meet the needs of Indigenous entrepreneurs. From contracting to capital, tourism to trade, we can help you reach the next level in your business.
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Want to find out when we’ll be in a community near you? Check out our events page and join us.
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We tell Indian Country’s story – in print, video, and even a podcast. Listen to the latest episode of our podcast to get a fresh perspective on the issues facing our community.
40 Under 40
Get Your Nomination Ready!
Recognizing Native American citizens for outstanding leadership and community contributions annually.
The 40 Under 40 is a prestigious award which recognizes 40 emerging American Indians from across Indian Country who have demonstrated leadership, initiative, and dedication and made significant contributions in business and/or in their community.
Our Impact
Your support helps us meet our mission.
The story of The National Center can be told in the countless businesses and entrepreneurs that we've helped - and the communities where they live and work.
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Contracts Awarded
$840,000,000
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Attendees at RES
4,600
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Current Clients
1,516
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States Traveled
23
Message from our CEO
55 Years of Growth
The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development celebrated its 55th anniversary in 2024. Though those who gathered in Los Angeles in 1969 to form the Urban Indian Development Association (UIDA) were visionary leaders with an eye to the future, I’m sure many of them would be surprised at the enduring success of the organization they founded – six decades, a new century, and a new millennium later.
Indeed, our 55th year was a fitting tribute to our founding mission to “mean business for Indian Country.” To explore every opportunity for economic development with a zeal that matches the gravity of the task at hand. To be a go-to resource for tribes, Alaska Native Corporations, and Indigenous people seeking to strengthen their economic sovereignty. To provide the strength needed for unity across our community. Our country. The world.
Chris James
President and CEO
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Rodney Butler * Chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation
"The National Center’s work has helped countless tribes, Native entrepreneurs and businesses, and tribal communities from Connecticut to California. The National Center also understands that Indian Country is much stronger united rather than divided. I look forward to continuing this close partnership for many years to come."
