West Sacramento, Calif. — Tides Foundation, acting on a recommendation from The Capital One Fund, awarded Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC) a $40,000 grant to support its Tribal Building Rural Economies (BRE) program through 2022.
Under the Tribal BRE, RCAC works in partnership with local Tribal entities to train Native American leaders and entrepreneurs; carry out community asset mapping and value chain analysis; facilitate networking; plan economic development strategies; and assist business expansion and development. Start-ups and existing businesses alike may benefit from the program, whether they are looking for expert guidance or to reposition their business.
Native American entrepreneurs seeking to establish new businesses and create jobs on their reservations have already received extensive support this year from RCAC through Tribal BRE. In Northern California, RCAC has partnered with a Tribally chartered nonprofit to support the Hoopa Valley Tribe’s recently constructed community market and small business incubator through workshops and funding for a dedicated community coordinator position. Additionally, RCAC’s BRE staff has provided technical assistance to the Manchester Point Arena Band of Pomo Indians as they consider development of a Tribally owned gas station and convenience store. BRE staff also worked with Yurok Alliance Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) to survey entrepreneurs regarding barriers to entrepreneurship on the Reservation and explore additional training opportunities.
“As we work with these three Northern California Tribes to build stronger local economies, we’re especially grateful to have Tides Foundation and The Capital One Fund as partners,” said Suzanne Anarde, RCAC Chief Executive Officer. “This grant has paved the way for us to help facilitate positive economic change that will benefit Northern California Tribes for years to come.”
Founded in 1978, RCAC provides training, technical and financial resources and advocacy so rural communities can achieve their goals and visions. RCAC serves rural communities in 13 western states and western Pacific islands. Services are available to communities with populations of fewer than 50,000, other nonprofit groups, Tribal organizations, farmworkers, colonias and other specific populations. RCAC staff provides direct services in program areas including affordable housing, environmental services, economic development and lending. To learn more about RCAC, visit http://www.rcac.org
Julia Helmreich, Director
Communications, Development & Events
(916) 529-7563
jhelmreich@rcac.org
