The practice of exchange and trade is deeply rooted in the history and cultural practices of indigenous communities and contributes to the diversity of a strong tribal economy. This project will launch a Buy Native educational campaign targeted towards the eleven rural tribal and urban communities of Minnesota. Materials will include: events, marketing and outreach, community training to implement a strong Buy Native campaign, new equitable procurement policies and tools for Tribal Governments.
Tribal Nations are facing a wide range of challenges as they seek to secure the future for their members, communities, and future generations. In seeking to create sustainable communities economically, socially, and politically, Tribal Nations need to be poised to develop ways to circulate financial resources as frequently as possible within their communities, rather than see the money used at other businesses outside the community.
A Buy Native First campaign contributes to the health and vitality of the tribal economic landscape. Elevating the diversity and expertise of native business and artisans impacts tribal economic multipliers in the generation of new jobs; forging of new networks and referrals; the emergence of new role models and mentors; they retain local talent; build community wealth; and supports other native-owned business with their purchases.
This project will elevate, educate and inform tribal communities and consumers about the rich diversity and expertise of native business/artisans. The project will launch an educational campaign in eleven rural tribal communities and four large native urban communities. Over 300 native businesses and artisans are securing new business opportunities locally, regionally and nationally. Tribal economies are growing stronger and more diverse and money is circulating in the community longer.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
