KeyBank Awards $500K Grant to Support Indigenous Businesses and Tribal Economies
The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development (The National Center), a non-profit dedicated to supporting tribes, tribally owned enterprises, and Indigenous entrepreneurs through economic and business development, has been awarded a $500,000 philanthropic grant from the KeyBank Foundation.
This funding aims to tackle the economic disparities Indigenous communities face, which stem from historical underrepresentation and systemic obstacles to economic progress. Native-owned farms and small businesses play a vital role in the prosperity of their communities but often struggle to compete with larger companies. The grant will support initiatives that protect and enhance Indigenous food systems, promote sustainability, and encourage environmental responsibility—efforts that contribute to the long-term strength and cultural preservation of Native communities.
Through partnerships with established organizations, the grant will also bolster Native-owned agricultural operations, fisheries, and small businesses. It will offer Indigenous entrepreneurs access to essential resources, training, and financial support, ultimately fostering job creation and skill development for Native youth, business owners, and community members.
“We’re excited to strengthen our ongoing partnership with the KeyBank Foundation,” said Chris James, President and CEO of The National Center. “KeyBank has consistently supported our mission and was pivotal in launching and expanding the Native Edge Institutes. This new initiative will create meaningful and lasting improvements in Indigenous agriculture, food systems, and the broader Native economy.”
Ben Rechkemmer, Head and Managing Director of KeyBank Native American Financial Services, added, “We deeply value our relationship with The National Center as we work to expand economic opportunities for Native American tribes and businesses. Their mission aligns closely with our goal to foster economic resilience and prosperity in the communities we serve.”
KeyBank was recently recognized with the Corporate Advocate of the Year award by The National Center during the Reservation Economic Summit (RES) held in Las Vegas in March. The award honors corporations that show outstanding dedication to advancing business opportunities for American Indian and Alaska Native enterprises, ultimately contributing to a stronger and more sustainable economy in Indian Country.
This funding aims to tackle the economic disparities Indigenous communities face, which stem from historical underrepresentation and systemic obstacles to economic progress. Native-owned farms and small businesses play a vital role in the prosperity of their communities but often struggle to compete with larger companies. The grant will support initiatives that protect and enhance Indigenous food systems, promote sustainability, and encourage environmental responsibility—efforts that contribute to the long-term strength and cultural preservation of Native communities.
Through partnerships with established organizations, the grant will also bolster Native-owned agricultural operations, fisheries, and small businesses. It will offer Indigenous entrepreneurs access to essential resources, training, and financial support, ultimately fostering job creation and skill development for Native youth, business owners, and community members.
“We’re excited to strengthen our ongoing partnership with the KeyBank Foundation,” said Chris James, President and CEO of The National Center. “KeyBank has consistently supported our mission and was pivotal in launching and expanding the Native Edge Institutes. This new initiative will create meaningful and lasting improvements in Indigenous agriculture, food systems, and the broader Native economy.”
Ben Rechkemmer, Head and Managing Director of KeyBank Native American Financial Services, added, “We deeply value our relationship with The National Center as we work to expand economic opportunities for Native American tribes and businesses. Their mission aligns closely with our goal to foster economic resilience and prosperity in the communities we serve.”
KeyBank was recently recognized with the Corporate Advocate of the Year award by The National Center during the Reservation Economic Summit (RES) held in Las Vegas in March. The award honors corporations that show outstanding dedication to advancing business opportunities for American Indian and Alaska Native enterprises, ultimately contributing to a stronger and more sustainable economy in Indian Country.
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