BLOG | EDA Celebrates Native American History Month with a Reflection on Four Years of Equity-Centered Growth in Tribal Nations

As we celebrate Native American Heritage Month 2024, we are proud to reflect on how the Economic Development Administration (EDA) and our counterparts throughout the US Department of Commerce have made transformational investments in the future of America’s Tribal communities.

At the heart of the Economic Development Administration's mission is a fundamental commitment to equity. EDA prioritizes investments that directly benefit traditionally underserved populations, with a particular focus on Indigenous and Native American communities who have historically been denied full opportunities for economic prosperity.

Since January 2021, EDA has transformed this commitment into tangible action.

With 372 grants awarded to Indigenous communities, the administration has invested $785 million in tribal economies. This substantial financial commitment has encouraged an estimated $1.5 billion in private sector investments and created pathways to approximately 17,600 jobs.

More than just financial support, EDA has approached Indigenous economic development with strategic intentionality. The $5 million additional funding to the Assistance to Indigenous Communities initiative represents a targeted effort. The funding will provide capacity building, planning support and technical assistance to support future implementation of foundational economic infrastructure. In addition to serving as a catalyst to utilize other EDA funding, the additional assistance will create meaningful economic opportunities for Native communities.

EDA has also broken down barriers to success and information sharing. Since 2021, EDA has commissioned research to improve support mechanisms, revised tribal application forms to reduce administrative burdens, and launched a quarterly Indigenous newsletter to enhance stakeholder communication and transparency. Our direct engagement with Tribal leaders and the elevation of success stories coming from many Tribal communities has reinforced collaboration as a critical element of the Biden-Harris’ Administration’s commitment to the success of all Americans.

These efforts embody a deep commitment to tribal sovereignty and economic self-determination. By removing barriers and providing strategic support, EDA is helping Indigenous communities chart their own economic futures, ensuring they have full and equitable opportunities to participate in economic prosperity.

As we look forward, EDA's work stands as a powerful example of targeted, thoughtful economic development that centers the needs, strengths, and aspirations of Indigenous communities.