Funding Opportunities for Native American Entrepreneurs

Starting a new business as a Native American entrepreneur can be financially challenging, but numerous organizations and programs offer grants to support your ambitions. The U.S. government allocates billions of dollars annually to assist Native Americans and other minority groups in developing their businesses, establishing communities, and pursuing educational goals. These grants are designed to help Native Americans launch or expand small enterprises, requiring verification of tribal identity through appropriate documentation.

To find out about eligibility criteria or apply for Native American grants, visit dedicated grant websites for detailed information and application procedures. The U.S. Department of Commerce plays a vital role in providing business funding, including the notable ‘zone grant’ program which supports new ventures managed via local agencies. Additionally, the Small Business Administration (SBA) offers various loans and grants tailored for Native American entrepreneurs to scale their small businesses.

SBA programs often target industries like food, beverage, and hospitality, providing essential support to emerging businesses. Multiple organizations, such as New American Funding, RLNN Native American Grants, and the Minority Business Development Agency, also offer funding opportunities for Native entrepreneurs. Other notable funders include Meta Capital Management, Pine River Capital, Marathon Asset Management, and Citadel Advisors, among several others.