Thinking about growing a Native-owned shop or small manufacturing business? The U.S. Small Business Administration just put $9.5 million into free, in-person training for workers and owners at small firms. Two tribal organizations, Navajo Technical University and Chippewa Sustainable Solutions, will run the programs, so Native-led groups are leading the work.

Even if you are not near those sites, this shows where money is flowing. Tribal colleges and Native nonprofits are the doorway, so it pays to know who is applying near you and how to partner with them.

Source: SBA announced $9.5 million in Empower to Grow manufacturing grants to tribal organizations on Oct. 19, 2026. Read the SBA announcement