Native American Small Business Support Program

Medium

Overview

The North Dakota Department of Commerce announces the availability of $600,000 to support Native American small businesses in North Dakota. Awards may be made to one or multiple businesses. The intent of this program is to maximize the economic impact of the funds by supporting the growth, sustainability, and competitiveness of Native American–owned small businesses.

Medium

Eligibility

To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Be a Native American–owned business (minimum 51% ownership).
  • For profit entity with fewer than 500 employees.
  • Be located and operating in North Dakota.
  • Be in good standing with state and federal requirements.

Use of Funds

Funds must be used to strengthen and grow the applicant’s business. Eligible uses may include, but are not limited to:

  • Working capital (e.g., inventory, supplies)
  • Purchase of equipment or technology
  • Business expansion or modernization
  • Marketing and customer acquisition
  • Workforce training or development
  • Other business investments that demonstrate measurable impact

Award Amounts

Total funds available: $600,000
Awards may range from $10,000 to $600,000 per business (flexible depending on demand and impact).
The Department of Commerce reserves the right to make multiple awards or to award the full amount to one applicant.

Proposal Requirements

  1. Applicants must submit a proposal including the following:
  2. Business Information – Business name, location, ownership structure, and contact information; description of products/services and years in operation.
  3. Eligibility Certification – Proof of Native American ownership and confirmation the business is a for profit entity with fewer than 500 employees.
  4. Project Proposal – Description of how funds will be used; explanation of how this investment will strengthen, expand, or sustain the business; timeline for implementation.
  5. Impact Statement – Anticipated outcomes and lasting effects on the business and community.
  6. Budget – Itemized use of requested funds.
Medium

Review Committee: Department of Commerce staff.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated on the following factors:

  • Business Viability (25 points)
    • Business Model – Does the business have a clear model for how it makes money?
    • Market Potential – Is there demonstrated demand for the product or service?
    • Track Record – Is the business established with some history, or if new, does it show realistic potential?
    • Financial Stability – Does the business have reasonable financial practices (cash flow, revenue, expense management)?
    • Competitive Positioning – Does the business differentiate itself from competitors?
  • Use of Funds (25 points)
    • Clarity – Is the request specific and well-articulated?
    • Feasibility – Is the proposed use of funds realistic given the award size?
    • Appropriateness – Are requested uses eligible and aligned with program intent?
    • Leverage – Does the funding unlock or attract other resources (e.g., private capital, other grants, in-kind support)?
    • Budget Soundness – Is the budget itemized, balanced, and consistent with the project narrative?
  • Impact (30 points)
    • Job Creation/Retention – Will the project create or sustain employment?
    • Revenue Growth – Will the investment increase sales, expand markets, or strengthen profitability?
    • Community Benefit – Will the business provide meaningful benefits to it Native community or broader North Dakota economy?
    • Sustainability of Impact – Are outcomes likely to last beyond the funding period?
    • Scalability – Could the project grow or replicate success in the future?
  • Capacity (10 points)
    • Leadership/Management – Do owners or managers demonstrate capability and commitment?
    • Implementation Readiness – Is the business prepared to begin the project quickly?
    • Operational Capacity – Does the business have the staff, systems, or partnerships to execute effectively?
    • Past Performance – Has the business successfully managed grants, loans, or business investments before?
  • Completeness (10 points)
    • Completeness – All required sections, documents, and signatures are included.
    • Clarity – Information is clearly written, easy to follow, and responsive to requirements.
    • Professionalism – Application is organized, free of major errors, and demonstrates attentional to detail.
    • Supporting Documentation – Ownership verification, budget, and other required attachments are included.

Total: 100 points

Medium

Reporting Requirements

Awardees will be required to submit:

  • Progress reports provided every six months (template provide by Commerce)
  • A final report summarizing expenditures, business impact, and outcomes (template provide by Commerce)

Submission Instructions

Deadline: January 13, 2026
Submission Method: Email to Shayden Akason at sakason@nd.gov
Questions: Shayden Akason

Terms & Conditions

Funds must be expended by June 30, 2027.
Awards are subject to state contracting and monitoring requirements.


The Department of Commerce reserves the right to adjust award amounts and funding decisions to maximize impact.