Thriving Native businesses boost Montana economy

Montana is fortunate to be home to eight tribal nations that have played an important role in our state’s heritage and culture. When the framers drafted our state’s constitution, they recognized the importance of these sovereign nations. What they likely did not foresee was the important economic role they would play in our state today.

It’s estimated that Tribal Nations create more than a billion dollars annually in economic activity. This important impact comes from job creation, business development and tourism activity. It has an impact far beyond reservation boundaries, and supports the economy statewide.

However, we know that Tribal Nations lag behind the rest of the state economically. The unemployment rate in tribal communities is often two to three times higher than the state average. One key reason for this is the struggle native-owned businesses face in accessing capital. Entrepreneurs in these communities are unable to gain the funds to make their dream a reality.

By ANGELA MCLEAN and SHARON STEWART-PEREGOY

Read more: http://billingsgazette.com/news/opinion/guest/guest-opinion-thriving-native-businesses-boost-montana-economy/article_e32e37cf-3627-5448-9a97-08ca869e491e.html#ixzz3X2hLxezi