The National Indian Business Association has developed an innovative national program designed to assist American Indian and Alaska Native enterprises meet the demands of the new market; cultivate and promote new businesses; create strategic alliances; and utilize information technology to strengthen and increase business.

NIBA�s business development program is a fundamental expression of the organizations overall commitment to growth and professional development of Tribal enterprises nation-wide.  Its vision is to promote business development and the utilization of information technology to improve communication and access to contract opportunities, and expand business.

NIBA will assist program participants to qualify and apply for Federal programs such as the Small Business Administration 8(a), Pro-Net, and HubZones programs using our internet-based guide to Federal programs and development training and mentoring.  In addition, NIBA will serve as a liaison between our members/partners and program participants to help guide them through the Federal application processes and promote business.  NIBA will also make available materials designed to address sales, business planning, advertising and marketing via our internet-based business development workbooks.

 The program is designed for American Indian and Alaska Native enterprises. Program participants must be able to answer �yes� to all of the following questions:

• American Indian & Alaska Native owned
• Support a Tribal community�s economic and social development (directly or indirectly)
• Capable of long-term expansion evident through the business�s flexibility to service a growing market, rate of growth since inception, long-term vision, and/or other growth indicators
• Maintain a budget capable of supporting additional expenditures including marketing and promotion, new hires, equipment, etc
• Able to support Federal government and corporate contracts
• Maintain an Internet infrastructure and access with dedicated IT staff
• Employ a significant number of American Indians and/or Alaska Natives
• Located within the United States

 Activities may include:

�        Mentorship assistance to complete an application for Federal certification (8A, HUBZones, SBA)

�        Identifying contacts for business development

�        Developing and nurturing contract opportunities

�        Providing non-obtrusive opportunities for the participant to observe and interact with other business professionals

WHEN DOES THE NIBA BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM FUNCTION?
The business development program will be offered during 2002 and 2003.  NIBA intends to secure additional funding to continue the program implementation beyond 2003.

WHERE IS THE PROGRAM OFFERED?
Business development program is available to enterprises nation-wide.

HOW DO I BECOME INVOLVED?
If you are interested in participating in NIBA�s business development program:

1.      Complete and submit the application online. Click here for the Tribal Enterprise Participant Form.

2.      Upon receipt and acceptance of your participant form, a NIBA staff member will be assigned to work with you and will contact you regarding the next steps.

It is important to note that NIBA can only accommodate a limited number of participants in the pilot program.

For more about NIBA�s Business Development Program contact Pete Homer at [email protected]  or call (703)341-6903.