by Jessica Stago, Native American Business Incubator Network Manager
From a Navajo version of Craigslist to a mechanic and repairman who will bring his shop to reservation residents’ front doors, the six finalists in the 2017 Innovation Challenge have some big ideas for small businesses that will bring positive social and economic change to tribal communities.
And the pressure’s on. Finalists from across the Navajo Nation will pitch their ideas Shark Tank-style on June 2, 2017 at Change Labs 2017 in Tuba City, Arizona, where they will compete to snag one of up to three $5,000 cash prizes, plus a year of business counseling and support services, valued at an additional $15,000. One runner-up will receive a year of business incubation services.
Now in its fourth year, Change Labs 2017 will offer 12 hands-on workshops on everything from 3D printing to franchising and building a social media following, plus popup shops, a sign-making studio, and one-on-one networking opportunities with business and creative mentors. It’s a great place to connect with other entrepreneurs and build your skillset. At the end of the first day, we'll announce three Innovation Challenge winners over a family-style meal featuring a performance by Navajo musical artist, Sage Bond. Save your seat ›
Kayenta, AZ
Business idea: a buying/selling listserv for the Navajo reservation similar to Craigslist.
Upper Fruitland, NM
Business idea: a mobile vehicle and equipment repair service on the Navajo reservation.
Winslow, AZ
Business idea: professional medical services for diabetes patients.
Shiprock, NM
Business idea: a private pain relief and physical therapy facility.
Sheep Springs, NM
Business idea: traditional Navajo foods, sustainable products, and tourism.
Ft. Defiance, AZ
Business idea: A child care facility providing daycare and afterschool services and education and skills training for parents.
The Native American Business Incubator Network partnered with Catapult Design to launch the Innovation Challenge, a competition among Native American entrepreneurs, in January 2017 and we were blown away by the quality of the applications that poured in. Our goal is to support small business ideas that have the potential to make a big difference for tribal communities, and it was clear from the applicant pool that are a lot of creative minds out there thinking about creative ways to make a living and help their communities. We hope you’ll join us in Tuba City to hear the six finalists pitch their ideas and connect with entrepreneurs, artists, and changemakers.
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