NIBA's 9th Annual

Corporate Outreach Gala as been Canceled

NIBA will soon be having Virtual

NIBA Promotes Partnerships in the Nation�s Capital

Since 1997, the National Indian Business Association (NIBA) has held its annual gala in the Nation�s capital.  Tribal (American Indian, Alaska Native and Hawaiian Native groups), Federal, and corporate leaders from around the country have joined in this exclusive celebration to honor and recognize the contributors and supporters of Indian business and economic development.

This bi-partisan event has honored the likes of Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell (R-Colorado); Senator John McCain (D-Arizona); Congressman Dale E. Kildee (D-Michigan); Senator Mary Bono (R-California); Congressman J.D. Hayworth (R-Arizona); Congressman Sonny Bono (D-California); Senator Frank Murkowski (R-Alaska); Congressman Patrick Kennedy (D-Rhode Island); Senator Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii); Senator Tom Daschle (D-South Dakota); Richard Pombo (R-California) and a host of other distinguished guests.  These individuals have commonly served as the �warriors� and voices committed to advancing Indian economic growth, prosperity, and creating alliances in the public policy arena.  Initially sponsored by NIBA�s Corporate America partners, the gala has grown in popularity, and is now supported and sponsored by a host of Tribes and Indian-owned companies.  Tribal sponsorship has more than doubled in the past two years.  The gala has also gained recognition as one of the premier American Indian hosted events in Washington, DC.

�Today, American Indian entrepreneurialism is increasing, new businesses are forming and already established companies are expanding.  Corporate America is recognizing the importance of diversifying their efforts and establishing partnerships both on and off reservations.  The Federal government is looking to Tribes and Tribal resources to further support this Country.  Today, all these groups are realizing the benefits to creating partnerships amongst one another in a united front against terrorism and economic instability.  It is in this spirit of growth that NIBA recognizes and encourages these Tribal, Corporate and Federal endeavors,� said Pete Homer, Mohave/Shasta Indian, and President and CEO of NIBA.  Mr. Homer has been working on behalf of Indian Country economic development for over 30 years, and brings to NIBA the expertise of the Tribal, Federal and private sectors.

NIBA�s goal is to continue strengthening Indian Country, and Federal and corporate relationships.  It is NIBA�s hope that the annual gala will serve as a symbolic reminder of the need to unify these groups, and bring together our resources to meet our unique economic needs.

As in previous years, the Gala will be held at the JW Marriott Hotel, 1331 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC.  Cocktails will be served at 6:00 pm, followed by dinner at 7:00 pm.  A variety of entertainment will be provided throughout the evening.  Tickets are available via NIBA�s website at www.nibanetwork.org.  For additional information or to obtain tickets contact Courtney Homer, Events Coordinator at (202) 223-3766.