Amber Childs is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in business development and event management, currently serving as the Business Development Specialist for the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development since January 2020. Hailing from Ajo, Arizona, and proud member of the Tohono O’odham Indian Nation, Amber’s journey in the professional world is deeply rooted in her heritage and education.
Graduating from Arizona State University with a degree in Recreation and Tourism Management, Amber embarked on her career path with a role as the Promotions Coordinator for Desert Diamond Casino West Valley, a flagship enterprise of her tribe. Her tenure coincided with the grand opening ceremony of the casino in 2015, where her contributions played a vital role in establishing the casino as a premier destination.
However, it was her role as the Recreation Manager for the Gila River Indian Community that truly showcased her talents and expertise. Responsible for overseeing Mul-Chu-Tha, the community’s annual fair and rodeo, Amber honed her skills in event coordination, managing contracts, procurement, vendor relations, volunteer management, and finance. This experience not only solidified her understanding of event logistics but also instilled in her a profound appreciation for the intricacies of business operations.
A dedicated professional, Amber is actively involved in various industry associations, including the International Festival and Events Association. She lends her expertise as a parade judge at the Arizona Indian Festival and actively participates in tribal community events. Moreover, she passionately advocates for disabilities and entrepreneurship, striving to create inclusive opportunities for all individuals.
In her current role as the Business Development Specialist, Amber leverages her unique blend of experience and passion to assist tribal business owners in navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship. Whether it’s helping entrepreneurs start a business, expand their operations, or secure financing, she serves as a trusted advisor and advocate. Her unwavering dedication to fostering economic development within indigenous communities makes her an invaluable resource for small business artisans and crafters looking to turn their passion into a successful enterprise.
With her deep-seated commitment to her community, coupled with her expertise in business development and event management, Amber Childs continues to make significant contributions to the advancement of tribal entrepreneurship and economic empowerment.
