Native people have been entrepreneurs since time immemorial.  Since 2016, National Entrepreneurship Week (#NatlEshipWeek) is a congressionally chartered week dedicated to empowering entrepreneurship across the United States and brings together a network of partners to educate, engage, and build equitable access to America’s entrepreneurship ecosystem.

National Entrepreneur Week offers a unique opportunity to highlight the contributions of entrepreneurs and the impact they have on our economy and communities. But while entrepreneurs are often celebrated for their innovation, drive, and resilience, it’s equally important to recognize the pivotal role that elected leaders and communities play in shaping an environment where businesses can thrive.

Entrepreneurship is not a solo endeavor—it’s supported by policies, funding opportunities, education, and networks, all of which are directly influenced by leadership at all levels. During this week, USET’s Office of Economic Development turns the spotlight not only on our entrepreneurs but also on how leaders can enhance the conditions for new businesses to flourish. By actively supporting entrepreneurs through tailored policies, programs, and community engagement, Tribal officials and program managers can foster the kind of ecosystem where innovation thrives and small businesses succeed.

The Role of Elected Officials: Advocating for Entrepreneurial-Friendly Policies

One of the most significant ways that elected officials can support entrepreneurs is through advocacy for policies that ease the burden on startups and small businesses. Entrepreneurs face numerous challenges, from securing capital to navigating complex regulations. For many, a lack of access to resources or excessive government red tape can be major barriers to success.

Tribal Employment Rights Ordinances (or TEROs) require that all employers who are engaged in operating a business on reservations give preference to qualified Indians in all aspects of employment, contracting and other business activities. TERO offices ensure Tribal citizens gain their rightful share to employment, training, contracting, subcontracting, and business opportunities on and near Tribal lands.  For more information on TEROS, visit the Council for Tribal Employment Rights (CTER), a community based Indian owned and operated non-profit organization that is comprised of and represents the interests of over 300 Tribal and Alaska Native Villages that are covered by employment rights ordinances.

Financial Support and Resource Accessibility

Another vital way elected officials and program managers can support entrepreneurs is by facilitating access to financial resources. Capital is often the lifeblood of a new business, yet many entrepreneurs struggle to secure funding. Government-backed loan programs, grants, and venture capital can play a crucial role in filling this gap.

Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) are key organizations that have been working to create innovative solutions to overcome financial access barriers. Over the last decade, Native CDFIs have proven themselves as vehicles towards developing healthy, vibrant Native economies and communities.  To learn more about Native CDFIs, visit the Native CDFI Network or visit these Native CDFIs in the USET region:

Reducing Red Tape: Simplifying the Path to Success

For many entrepreneurs, tax regulations and complex licensing requirements can be major hurdles. Elected officials can create an environment that encourages entrepreneurship by reducing bureaucratic hurdles. Streamlining business permit applications, cutting down on licensing delays, and making it easier to register new businesses all improve the experience of entrepreneurs trying to start and scale their businesses. These changes can free up valuable time and resources, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on growing their businesses instead of navigating red tape.

Creating Networking Opportunities and Fostering Direct Engagement

Entrepreneurs are often disconnected from decision-makers, which can lead to a lack of understanding about the challenges they face. Elected officials and program managers can break down this barrier by hosting town halls, forums, or roundtable discussions with entrepreneurs. These events provide an opportunity for entrepreneurs to voice their concerns directly to policymakers and for local leaders to better understand the needs of the business community.

Such engagements can help identify gaps in support, whether that’s access to financing, specific types of mentorship, or regulatory changes. Additionally, it can serve as a platform for entrepreneurs to network with each other, potentially sparking collaborations that drive innovation and community development.

For the past two years the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation has hosted a free one-day symposium for entrepreneurs and small business owners with special topics specifically related to the unique perspective and needs of tribal entrepreneurs and business owners. The event features panels, workshops, expert speakers, and success stories that provide information and guidance on how to grow business. To learn more about this and other symposiums, please reach out to USET’s Economic Development Director, Rebecca Naragon, at RNaragon@usetinc.org.

Conclusion

As National Entrepreneur Week unfolds, it’s essential that we not only celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship but also recognize the integral role that we all play in supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem. By advocating for policies that foster innovation, providing access to funding and educational resources, reducing red tape, and directly engaging with entrepreneurs, we can create a thriving environment for businesses to grow.

Visit USET’s Office of Economic Development webpage for entrepreneurship resources and information.