Resources for Native American-Owned Businesses
As one of the most under-served demographics of the United States, we believe the Native American people are long over-due to take their rightful place in American business. Because of that, we’ve collected a wealth of resources for those of Native American descent that either already own or are wanting to start a business in the US in order to help bring attention to the resources that are already available. Additionally, Commercial Loan Direct will offer a 50% origination fee reduction* on any loan program we offer so long as the borrower/business is 51%+ owned by an individual that can prove Native American heritage.
Summary of Federal Loan Programs and Business Resources for Native Americans
Small Business Administration (SBA) - Resources for American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians
Resource Guide for American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians
SBA 8(a) Business Development Program for Federal Contracting Assistance
Business & Technical Assistance, including marketing, strategic and operational planning, financial analysis, opportunity development and capture, contract management, and compliance.
Native American Business Primer, an online course to assist native peoples considering starting a business
Department of Interior Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) - Opportunities regarding job training, education, and employment for members of federally recognized tribes
Office of Indian Energy & Economic Development (IEED) – guaranteed loan program for economic development in Indian Country
Loan Guarantee Program - loan guarantee up to 90% for Native American-owned businesses. The maximum guaranty is $500,000 for individual tribal members, but can go higher for tribes and tribal enterprises.
US Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Rural Development Program / Assistance for Tribal Nations
Department of Commerce (USDC)
Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) – promotes growth and expansion of minority businesses with management and technical assistance
US Treasury
Federal Housing Authority (FHA) Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
Title VI Loan Guarantee for Affordable Housing
US Senate Committee on Indian Affairs
National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) - founded in 1944, NCAI is the oldest, largest and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization serving the broad interests of tribal governments and communities
* Borrower/business must qualify for the loan program by meeting the underwriting standards provided by that particular program. This fee reduction applies only to Commercial Loan Direct’s origination fee; it does not apply to any other fees charged by the applicable programs or funding lenders.
