Honoring 2014 National Native American Heritage Month

Every year, our Nation pauses to reflect on the profound ways the First Americans have shaped our country's character and culture. The first stewards of our environment, early voices for the values that define our Nation, and models of government to our Founding Fathers -- American Indians and Alaska Natives helped build the very fabric of America.

President Barack Obama
2014 Presidential Proclamation: National Native American Heritage Month

MBDA celebrates Native American Heritage Month and acknowledges the significant contributions of Native American-owned businesses to the U.S. economy.  A key component of the Agency’s services is dedicated to addressing the unique economic challenges and opportunities in Indian Country. In Fiscal Year 2013, MBDA helped Native American-owned businesses access $789 million in contracts and capital, which led to the creation and retention of 3,604 jobs.

Quick Facts about Native American-Owned Businesses

• There are 237,000 Native American-owned firms in the United States.

• Native American-owned firms contribute $34.4 billion in U.S. economic output and 185,000 jobs per year.

• Native American-owned firms with employees average eight workers and $1.2 million in annual receipts.

• Native American-owned firms are more concentrated in Arizona, California, Florida, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, and Texas.

MBDA continues to invest in Indian Country to support job creation and economic development through the operation of MBDA Business Centers in states with large Native American populations.  We commemorate this heritage month and pay tribute to all Native Americans past and present for their legacy of character, strength, and tradition.

» Learn more at American Indian & Alaska Native-Owned Firms

» Presidential Proclamation: National Native American Heritage Month, 2014