Our History
The National Center began as the Urban Indian Development Association in 1969, at a tumultuous time in America’s history. Amid the chaos, this group of Native American businessmen in Los Angeles came together with a singular goal: to create job opportunities for young Native Americans.
What began as UIDA has evolved over the years, but that early vision set the stage for what would become a pioneering force in Native American business development.
Take a stroll through our timeline to learn more. Here are some pictures – may need to grant access.
- 1973: UIDA becomes the first grantee for an Indian development center.
- 1974: UIDA launches a small business loan program with support from Bank of America.
- 1981: Indian in Progress Business Awards (INPRO) begin.
- 1985: The Defense Logistics Agency funds what would eventually become The National Center APEX Accelerator.
- 1987: UIDA organizes the first Reservation Economic Summit.
- 1989: UIDA rebranded as the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development.
- 1990: The National Center purchases its current Mesa, AZ office.
- 2001: RES relocates to Las Vegas.
- 2009: The National Center launches the Native American 40 Under 40 program. • 2012: Regional RES conferences begin.
- 2016: Board Chairman Derrick Watchman testifies before Congress on the Indian Community Economic Enhancement Act.
- 2018: Launch of Native Edge Institutes.
- 2020: The National Center quickly adapts to the COVID-19 pandemic, shifting much of its operations to a virtual format and creating a guide and database for tribal PPE procurement.
- 2022: Arizona MBDA Export Center opens; first Export Center run by a Native American non-profit.
- 2024: At 4,600 registrants, RES 2024 sets attendance records.
As The National Center builds on its storied past, it remains dedicated to creating lasting impact and empowering future generations. Learn more about our history below.
