We Mean Business
Welcome to the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development
Since 1969, the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development has been a driving force for the advancement of Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses. Through training, programming, and subject-matter expertise, The National Center has become the preeminent non-profit in the United States focused on the American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian economies.
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We have the programming to meet the needs of Indigenous entrepreneurs. From contracting to capital, tourism to trade, we can help you reach the next level in your business.
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Want to find out when we’ll be in a community near you? Check out our events page and join us.
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We tell Indian Country’s story – in print, video, and even a podcast. Listen to the latest episode of our podcast to get a fresh perspective on the issues facing our community.
6th Edition of NC Magazine Now Available
The 6th edition of NC Magazine is now available! Learn more about the rise of Native tourism and the people, tribes, and businesses that are at the forefront of this emerging industry.
Our Impact
Your support helps us meet our mission.
The story of The National Center can be told in the countless businesses and entrepreneurs that we've helped - and the communities where they live and work.
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Contracts Awarded
$855,000,000
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Attendees at RES
4,800+
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Businesses and Entrepreneurs Served
2,689
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States Traveled
26
Message from our CEO
The National Center Goes Beyond Boundaries
The National Center reached new heights in fiscal year 2025. We started a new tourism program, focused on helping tribes and tribally owned businesses reach their potential in a rapidly growing field. The 2025 Reservation Economic Summit was perhaps our best yet, with a record 4,800-plus in attendance for Indian Country’s premier business gathering. Our work beyond national borders continued to grow, with these efforts starting to bear fruit. We strengthened our relationships with sister organizations. We expanded our communications platforms. And net revenues improved by more than $900,000.
Our work over the last year bolstered my resolve and belief that The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development serves an invaluable role in our community, as it has for the last six decades. We forge connections between Native-owned businesses and corporate America. We open new doors and push boundaries to create economic opportunity for Indian Country. And The National Center quickly responds when challenges arise.
Chris James
President and CEO
News & Notes
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Rodney Butler * Chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation
"The National Center’s work has helped countless tribes, Native entrepreneurs and businesses, and tribal communities from Connecticut to California. The National Center also understands that Indian Country is much stronger united rather than divided. I look forward to continuing this close partnership for many years to come."
