The Minnesota Indigenous Business Alliance
Founded in 2008, the Minnesota Indigenous Business Alliance (MNIBA) was formed in response to the limited Native entrepreneurial and small business growth and development occurring throughout the state.
Alliance partners learned that through collaboration and by mobilizing resources outside their immediate control, they achieve their missions far more efficiently, effectively, and sustainably than they could have by working alone.
MNIBA’s partners see the value of shifting focus on their mission, not their organization or interest; on trust, not control; and on being a node, not a hub which has resulted in building and strengthening capacity outside of their individual efforts.
MNIBA is a registered 501c3 nonprofit.
MNIBA’s Strategic Approach to Native-owned Business Development:
MNIBA is dedicated to “Putting Native Business First.” To accomplish this goal community members, and members of our leadership team met with a facilitator to create a strategic plan.
MNIBA continues to grow and attract new partnerships and capture positive attention, resource sharing and momentum statewide. The success and impact on native communities that has culminated through this organizational collaborative and partnerships have resulted in the following:
The Minnesota Indigenous Business Alliance (MNIBA)
MNIBA Is Guided by a holistic, strategic framework focused on seven key areas: Native trade & Commerce, Community, Partnerships, Governance, Infrastructure, Finance and Resources.
Native Trade and Commerce
The practice of exchange and trade is deeply rooted in the history and cultural practices of indigenous communities. Successful native driven trade and commerce contributes to the diversity of a strong tribal economy.
Community
Community members are the most legitimate, informed, and reliable source of information about their own priorities. Their support is central to the success of native trade and commerce.
Partnerships
Collaborative partners play an important role in the development of native trade and commerce. Tribal communities and native entrepreneurs thrive under supportive tribal policies focused on trade and commerce.
Infrastructure
Infrastructure builds upon governance and addresses the legal, physical and human capital needs so that trade and commerce grow. This includes business, employment, zoning laws and regulations, the development of zoned trade and commerce districts, sound road systems, utilities, communication, broadband, and workforce development with industry specific workforce strategies.
Finance
Equitable and strategic access to financial products that best address the unique needs and challenges of native entrepreneurs increase when strong governance and infrastructure are in place.
Resources
Access and connection to networks, mentors, personal, professional and business management tools are critical to the success and expansion of native trade and commerce.