The GHWIN Blog

Bridging Barriers to Capital: Why NACIA Was Founded

The Native American Investment and Capital Alliance (NACIA) was founded to address the critical need for equitable investment opportunities for Native entrepreneurs. Recognizing the systemic barriers that Indigenous business owners face—such as limited access to capital, lack of investor networks, and financial inequities—NACIA was established to bridge these gaps. The organization was driven by the belief that Native-led businesses and sustainable economic development initiatives must be supported and funded to create lasting change within Indigenous communities.

Championing Indigenous Innovation: NACIA’s Mission to Elevate Native Entrepreneurs

NACIA’s mission is to empower Native entrepreneurs by providing them with the educational resources, capital, and networks necessary to scale their businesses successfully. It focuses on advocating for increased funding for Indigenous-led ventures, fostering mentorship, and developing programs tailored to the unique needs of Native founders. Through education, advocacy, and direct investment efforts, NACIA helps Indigenous businesses thrive while preserving cultural integrity and promoting economic self-determination.

Connecting Capital & Community: Leveling the Playing Field for Native Founders

NACIA employs multiple strategies to address the capital distribution gap, including:

  • Investor Education & Advocacy: Raising awareness among investors about the potential and impact of Native-led businesses.

  • Entrepreneur Education: Building the nation’s first education & mentoring platform connecting Native entrepreneurs to diverse growth capital (venture capital, impact capital, CDFI loans, grants, etc.).

  • Strategic Partnerships: Connecting Native founders with aligned investors, venture funds, and financial institutions.

  • Capacity-Building Programs: Offering accelerator programs such as RAISE (Regional Accelerator for Innovative & Sustainable Ecosystems) to prepare Native founders for investment and growth.

Collaborating for Inclusive Growth: NACIA’s Key Partnerships

NACIA actively collaborates with various partners, including universities, venture funds, governmental agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Notable partnerships include collaborations with the University of New Mexico, Creative Startups, and the National Science Foundation (NSF) for initiatives like the DeepTEK Symposium.

NACIA also engages investors and industry leaders to foster an ecosystem where Native entrepreneurs can access capital, mentorship, and strategic opportunities.

Fueling Success: How Investors Can Empower Indigenous Founders

Investors interested in supporting NACIA’s mission can engage in several ways:

  • Direct Investment: Invest in Native-owned startups and businesses through NACIA’s network.

  • Partnerships: Collaborate with NACIA to develop funding programs tailored for Indigenous entrepreneurs.

  • Advisory Roles & Mentorship: Offer expertise and mentorship to Native founders through NACIA-led programs.

  • Philanthropic Contributions: Support NACIA initiatives such as accelerators, business education programs, and ecosystem-building events.

Creating Opportunities Together: How the Public Can Make a Difference

The public can support NACIA’s mission by:

  • Amplifying Indigenous Businesses: Purchasing from and promoting Native-owned brands and companies.

  • Advocating for Policy Change: Encouraging policymakers to support initiatives that provide funding and opportunities for Native entrepreneurs.

  • Donating & Volunteering: Contributing to NACIA programs or offering professional skills to mentor Indigenous business owners.

  • Attending Events: Participating in NACIA’s conferences, such as the DeepTEK Symposium, to learn more and build connections with Native entrepreneurs.

Roadmap for 2025: NACIA’s Key Initiatives to Foster Indigenous Innovation

In the coming year, NACIA aims to expand its impact by:

  • Launching New Funding Initiatives: Securing additional investment and grants to support Native founders.

  • Scaling Accelerator Programs: Expanding programs like RAISE to reach more Indigenous entrepreneurs.

  • Strengthening Strategic Partnerships: Enhancing collaborations with investors, venture studios, and financial institutions.

  • Advancing Policy Advocacy: Engaging with policymakers to push for more equitable access to capital for Native-led businesses.

  • Expanding Educational Resources: Providing more tools, mentorship, and funding opportunities through the NACIA website’s resource hub.

NACIA is committed to reshaping the future of Indigenous entrepreneurship by breaking down barriers and creating lasting opportunities for Native founders. Through investment, education, and advocacy, the organization fosters an inclusive economy where Indigenous businesses can flourish. Whether through strategic partnerships, direct investment, or community support, there are many ways to contribute to NACIA’s mission. Working together can uplift Native entrepreneurs and communities and ensure sustainable economic success for Indigenous communities for generations.

To learn more about how you can get involved with NACIA directly, please email Kelly at kelly@nacia.com

Shaping Tomorrow: How Indigenous Founders Are Leading Change

February 2025

This month, we are shining a light on underrepresented founders and the incredible impact they’re making within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. The GHWIN community is proud to be connected with organizations like NACIA (Native American Investment and Capital Alliance), which champions Indigenous entrepreneurs and innovation.

NACIA empowers Native business owners by addressing systemic barriers and advocating for equitable investment opportunities. Through strategic partnerships, educational initiatives, and funding resources, NACIA is working to close equity gaps and foster sustainable economic growth in Native communities.

In this post we had the privilege of speaking with Kelly Holmes, a dedicated NACIA board member, who shared valuable insights on representation, the challenges underrepresented founders face, and the transformative work being done to build a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Here’s what Kelly had to share: