Talk with a Change Labs coach
Whether you're launching a nonprofit, evolving your business, or exploring an idea, a Change Labs coach offers valuable insights tailored to your vision. Our coaches help clarify your goals, develop actionable plans, and navigate challenges, and support you in identifying the resources and strategies necessary for growth.
Indianpreneurship Class
Hosted by Cedar Growth and Woodland Financial Partners, not by us.
Cedar Growth, in partnership with Woodland Financial Partners, is hosting a virtual one-day course to support entrepreneurs who are starting a business. Topics include business plans, legalities, marketing, financials, and types of ownership.
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
9:00am – 3:00pm (Online)
Learn more at www.cedargrowth.org or www.woodlandfinancial.org.
The workshop will take place on Zoom — be sure to register to get your access link.
Right-sizing your loan request
How much should you ask for when applying for an NSBCI loan (or any loan)? Asking for too little can leave you stuck. Asking for too much can hurt your chances of getting approved. This workshop will help you find the just right number for your business. Join one of Change Labs’ most sought after business coach, Holly Patterson, for a practical session on how to right-size your loan request based on your goals, cash flow, and capacity to repay. We’ll cover:
How to match your loan amount to your actual business needs
What lenders look for when reviewing your request
How to avoid red flags and strengthen your application
Tools to help you calculate and justify your loan amount
Whether you're expanding, launching, or just trying to stay afloat, this workshop will help you approach your loan request with confidence and clarity.
Community Conversations
The Arizona Commission on the Arts is coming to Tuba City to hear directly from community members about what matters most when it comes to arts and culture. As part of a statewide listening tour, this 90-minute in-person session invites local artists, educators, culture bearers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders to share their voices and perspectives.
Your input will help shape the Commission’s long-term strategic plan and ensure that future grants and programs better reflect the needs and priorities of rural and Indigenous communities like ours.
This conversation will be facilitated by Arts Commission staff, including their Tribal Relations Manager, and is open to anyone passionate about strengthening the creative future of our region.
Date: July 30, 2025
Time: 4:00 pm (Daylight savings time)
Location: Change Labs' Tuba City E-ship Hub (64 Main Street, Tuba City, AZ 86045)
Refreshments will be provided!
Let’s help shape the future of the arts in Arizona—together!
Exploring fiscal sponsorship
Are you thinking about starting a nonprofit but not sure where to begin? Or maybe you're looking for alternative ways to make an impact without forming your own 501(c)(3)? Join Technical Assistance Partnership of Arizona (TAPAZ) for this 90-minute, hands-on workshop that breaks down the essentials of nonprofit development and fiscal sponsorship.
You'll learn how to build a strong foundation for your organization—including a business plan, budget, and fundraising strategy. We’ll also explore collaboration opportunities, the benefits of fiscal sponsorship, and how to find the right sponsor that aligns with your mission.
What to Expect:
Fiscal Sponsorship 101
Key steps to starting a nonprofit
Alternatives to launching your own nonprofit
How to evaluate and “match” with a fiscal sponsor
Take-home templates: business plan, fundraising plan, budget, and more
Who Should Attend:
Community leaders, grassroots organizers, and anyone looking to bring their ideas to life in a sustainable and supported way.
For any questions or support with registering for this workshop, please contact us at hello@nativestartup.org.
You can also watch our past workshops on the Change Labs YouTube Channel.
How To Start A Skills Based Business
Hosted by IDRS Acorn Project
Whether you're new to the HVAC field or eager to become your own boss, this beginner-friendly course will provide you with all the essential knowledge needed to establish a successful trade skills business, guided by the insights of an experienced business owner who has built and sold his own trade enterprise. In the webinar, you'll discover:
Steps to get licensed, insured, and legally establish your business
Strategies to acquire your first paying customers without breaking the bank on advertising
Pricing and service techniques
Effective financing options for your startup
Marketing strategies for your business
How to avoid common beginner pitfalls that could cost you money
About IDRS Acorn Project:
The IDRS Acorn Project is a program of Indian Dispute Resolution Services, Inc. (IDRS, Inc.) a 501(c)(3) Native-governed, non-profit based in California. The IDRS Acorn Project provides free, online and offline small business training to Native entrepreneurs throughout the United States. IDRS also offers free counseling services to Native entrepreneurs to help them start and grow small businesses.
IDRS, Inc. also provides dispute resolution services including mediation and facilitation, dispute resolution training, and tribal election administration to Native American tribes. For more information about IDRS, please visit www.idrsinc.org.
Metamorphosis : A mental health transformation with art
Transformation begins within.
Metamorphosis is a powerful exploration of mental health through art — a journey from darkness to light, chaos to clarity, and healing pain. Featuring works from Crystal L Dághaa’ii, the show reveals the inner transformations we experience in the face of anxiety, depression, trauma, and recovery. Each piece reflects a stage of emotional evolution, reminding us that growth often comes through struggle, and beauty can emerge from even the most difficult moments.
This show invites viewers to witness the raw, often unseen stages of inner transformation — the moments of stillness, chaos, breakthrough, and beauty that define the human psyche. Just as a caterpillar surrenders to the cocoon before emerging as something new, each piece in Metamorphosis reflects a stage of mental evolution — fragile, yet essential.
Come walk through stories of vulnerability and strength, and leave with a deeper understanding of what it means to change, heal, and become.
Level Up Your Marketing with AI: Craft content that connects & converts
Join us for a dynamic 90-minute workshop where we'll cut through the hype and show you practical ways to use artificial intelligence to elevate your marketing.
You'll learn a powerful marketing framework that gives you a clear roadmap for your content. Then, watch a live demo of AI tools in action and take part in hands-on exercises where you'll:
Craft compelling messaging that highlights your unique value.
Generate engaging website content that truly connects.
Build social media strategies that capture attention and drive results.
Led by Adrian Dotson, founder of Rainmaker Media Group and a proud Navajo entrepreneur, this session draws on his experience helping Native-owned businesses thrive with smart, effective marketing.
Don’t miss this chance to see how AI can supercharge your marketing efforts.
Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Native American Veterans
The University of New Mexico and Hesperus are offering a free Entrepreneurship Bootcamp exclusively for Native American Veterans from New Mexico and the Southwest region. The program provides hands-on training in small business management and covers topics like marketing, financing, operations, and more.
Eligibility: Native American Veterans with a passion for business ownership.
Cost: Free – includes transportation, lodging, meals, and course materials. No GI Bill or VOC-Rehab required.
Deadline to apply: July 28
Note: This is not a Change Labs event.
Request the application link by emailing James Reede at JamesR@hesperus.us.
Rising Together: Indigenous Strength in Innovation & Economy
Join the American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Arizona (AICCAZ) for our 2025 Business Conference—where culture, commerce, and connection come together in the heart of Indian Country!
This two-day event is designed to energize and empower entrepreneurs, business owners, and leaders through bold conversations on topics like digital growth, access to capital, workforce development, branding, policy, and Native innovation.
Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, this is your space to connect, learn, and lead.
✨ Come be inspired. Come build. Come grow.
This isn’t just a conference—it’s your next big move.
2025 American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Arizona (AICCAZ) Business Conference
Hosted by American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Arizona (AICCAZ)
Save the Date!
The 2025 American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Arizona (AICCAZ) Business Conference is set for September 11-12, 2025, at Cliff Castle Casino Hotel in Camp Verde, AZ, proudly hosted by the Yavapai-Apache Nation!
This premier gathering brings together entrepreneurs, small businesses, tribal enterprises, community and business leaders, and more to explore economic growth, partnership opportunities, and innovation within Indian Country.
Attendees will gain valuable insights, network with key decision-makers, and support the advancement of Native businesses and entrepreneurship.
Sponsorship opportunities and registration open in February 2025—don’t miss your chance to be part of this impactful event! Click here for more information
2025 Hopi Economic Summit
Join the Hopi Credit Association for the 2025 Hopi Economic Summit: Engaging Minds, Empowering Success. This two-day event will bring together entrepreneurs, community leaders, and economic partners to explore opportunities that support and grow Hopi small businesses.
Dates: September 29-30, 2025
Location: Moenkopi Legacy Inn, Moenkopi, AZ
Registration details will be announced soon.
For more information, visit hopicredit.us or email hopismallbiz@gmail.com for sponsorship opportunities.
Hopi Seamstress Fashion Show
Are you a Hopi seamstress interested in showcasing your handmade creations? Here’s your chance to shine! As part of the 2nd Annual Hopi Economic Summit, the Hopi Credit Association is hosting an evening fashion show on September 29, 2025 at the Moenkopi Legacy Inn.
This is an opportunity to display your handsewn work, connect with the community, and even make sales.
Requirements:
Must be an enrolled member of the Hopi Tribe
Creations must be handsewn
Submit a form of interest by August 1 to be considered.
Paper forms can be requested by calling 928-738-2205.
21st Annual Native Women's Leadership Forum & Enduring Spirit Honoring Luncheon
Hosted by Native Action Network
Join the 21st Annual Native Women’s Leadership Forum & Enduring Spirit Honoring Luncheon at Muckleshoot Casino Resort.
This two-day event features professional development workshops, a welcome reception with fashion show, a Native Art Market, and the celebration of this year’s Enduring Spirit Honorees.
October 23-24, 2025
Day 1: Registration at 8:30 AM, workshops, evening reception & fashion show
Day 2: Youth Honoring Breakfast, Rising Star Award, more workshops, luncheon & networking
Hotel rooms available at $179+tax. Call 1-800-804-4944 and mention the Native Women’s Leadership Forum for the special rate.
For more details or to register, please visit the event’s official page.
Learn the Cash Flow Habits of Successful Sellers (Live Demo Included)
Looking for practical ways to better manage your business finances? Check out this free on-demand session from Square, available to watch anytime. Just use the link to sign up, and Square will email you a link to watch the video whenever it fits your schedule.
In this session, Square experts break down the biggest myths about cash flow and show how real sellers use Square Banking to stay on top of their money — even when margins are tight. You’ll also see a live demo of how to manage cash flow using Square’s connected tools.
What You’ll Learn:
Why separating personal and business finances matters (especially at tax time)
How to start saving before you feel “ready”
Ways to manage your money in real time with tools built for your business
How to see your full cash flow picture with Square’s connected tools
This demo is completely free and available on demand.
Register and get the video link sent straight to your inbox!
Save the Date: RES 2026 – Rising Together
The 2026 Reservation Economic Summit (RES), hosted by the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development, will take place March 23-26, 2026 in Las Vegas, NV.
RES is the premier national event bringing together tribal leaders, members of Congress, federal agencies, state and local officials, and top CEOs to shape the future of the Indigenous economy. Attendees can look forward to valuable networking, workshops, and sessions focused on strengthening Native businesses and communities.
Call for Sessions Now Open
Proposals for breakout sessions are being accepted until October 17, 2025. Session topics will include:
Agriculture & Food Sovereignty
Economic Development & Access to Capital
Energy, Infrastructure & Environment
Federal Contracting & Procurement
Healthcare & Social Services
Leadership & Workforce Development
Legal & Regulatory Issues
Technology & Data Sovereignty
Tourism & Cultural Preservation
Tribal Governance & Policy
To see the impact of RES, check out the RES 2025 Recap Video highlighting year-round programs like the APEX Accelerator, Native Edge Institutes, and the MBDA Export Program.
For more information, visit ncaied.org.
Federal trademark searching: Overview
This webinar will introduce you to the fundamental mechanics of using our trademark search system. It’s geared toward new users and those interested in conducting basic searches. We’ll cover:
Why you should search
Basic search strategy
Common searches
Finding help
This information will be presented live via Webex from 3-4 p.m. ET on Friday, July 25, and will conclude with a question-and-answer session.
The Path to a Patent, Part II: Drafting provisional patent applications
In part two of this eight-part recurring series, USPTO experts discuss key differences between provisional and nonprovisional patent applications, filing requirements and fees, the different ways to file a provisional application, and more.
USPTO Hour: Trademark Security Updates
Join the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on Wednesday, July 23, from 12–1 p.m. ET for their next USPTO Hour, hosted by the Office of the Commissioner for Trademarks.
This webinar will cover recent updates to the trademark filing authorization process, aimed at strengthening security and reducing fraudulent filings. Attendees will learn about:
A brief history of trademark application hijacking
A live demo of the updated Change Address or Representation (CAR) form
How user roles will work in future filings
Updates on trademark pendency and suspicious filings
Featured speakers include USPTO experts Jason Lott and Matt Schwab.
Note: This event is hosted by the USPTO, not Change Labs.
Her Voice, Her Story: A Speaker Series for Native Women Business Owners
Her Voice, Her Story is an inspiring online speaker series from WESST’s Native Women Rising Program, celebrating the leadership and resilience of Native women entrepreneurs. This session features Goldie Tom, founder of Goldie Luxe Studio, whose creative journey spans New York Fashion Week runways to international projects in beauty, fashion, and film. Attendees will gain practical business insights, personal growth tools, and the motivation to amplify their own voices in business. This free webinar is hosted by WESST Farmington Women’s Business Center and requires registration. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.
Shiprock E-ship Hub Grand Opening
The Shiprock E-ship Hub is a brand-new space in the heart of Shiprock where local entrepreneurs, artists, and change makers can gather, get support, and grow their ideas into thriving businesses.
Whether you're selling food, building apps, or launching a nonprofit — the Hub is here for you. Drop in for free business help, attend a workshop, meet other local go-getters, or just hang out and find inspiration. Come see what’s possible — the Change Labs Shiprock E-ship Hub grand opening is a free celebration open to the public!
Submit your Business Pitch for Pitch Your Hustle Competition before deadline on Friday, June 27th, 2025 at 11:59am MDT via changelabs.org/pitch!
Event agenda:
1:30 pm - Live pitch competition with $25,000 in cash!
3:30 pm - E-ship Hub tours, live music, appetizers, and networking!
4:00 pm - Grand opening ceremony
6:30 pm - Doors close for the evening
Record keeping & Building good financial habits
Good financial habits can make or break a business. In this session, you’ll learn simple, effective ways to track your income, expenses, and cash flow—so you always know where your money is going. We’ll explore different recordkeeping methods, from basic spreadsheets to digital tools, and help you set up a system that fits your business. You’ll also learn how to organize your financial records for tax season and loan applications, making it easier to qualify for funding when you need it.
What You’ll Learn:
Why financial recordkeeping is critical for business success
How to set up a simple system to track income and expenses
The basics of a chart of accounts and how to categorize transactions
Tools and apps that make financial tracking easier
How good recordkeeping prepares you for tax season and loan applications
Don't miss this session with Navajo accountant, Delphina Begay!
Sustainable Food Production & Water Testing Workshop + Co-op Meeting
Learn about soil management, pest control, crop rotation, water testing, and more at this hands-on workshop hosted by the Little Colorado River Agricultural Cooperative, Apex Applied Technology, and the University of Arizona.
Lunch will be provided but registration is required (space is limited)
For more info or to register, contact 928-730-0355 or nateetsitty@gmail.com.
What is the Navajo Small Business Credit Initiative? A FB Live Q&A!
Have you heard of the NSBCI but aren't quite sure what it means for your business or nonprofit? Join Change Labs for a live Q&A that breaks down the Navajo Small Business Credit Initiative (NSBCI)—a new source of funding and support for Navajo-owned small businesses. In this session, we’ll explain:
* What the NSBCI is and how it works
* The different types of loans and funding available
* Who qualifies and how to apply
* How NSBCI can help you grow or start your business on Navajo land
Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this workshop will help you understand how to tap into this major opportunity for Navajo entrepreneurs. Bring your questions—we’re here to help!
There’s no need to register — just join us on our Facebook page on July 7th at lunchtime!
The 2-page business plan
Join our Two-Page Business Plan Workshop to learn how to create a streamlined, action plan that captures your vision, strategy, and key operational details — all in just two pages! This hands-on, interactive session is perfect for entrepreneurs, startups, and small business owners looking to articulate their goals without getting bogged down by lengthy documents. Hosted by Dine' founder of WaterPeak Partners, Joe Bia.
Pricing your products & services
Discover how to align your business goals with effective revenue models and pricing strategies in this interactive workshop designed for Native entrepreneurs. Learn how to evaluate different ways to earn income, set prices that reflect the value of your work, and ensure financial sustainability for your business. We'll explore examples rooted in Native-owned ventures and discuss strategies that honor cultural values while meeting market demands. By the end of the session, you’ll have actionable insights to grow your revenue, retain customers, and build a thriving business that supports your community and vision for the future. Hosted by Marsha Greyeyes at Change Labs.
Deskbound & Desk Smart: Ergonomics, Stretching, Wellness, and You!
Do you spend long hours at a desk, standing, or behind the wheel? If you’ve ever felt tightness, fatigue, back or neck pain, or poor balance, this workshop is for you.
Join us at the Tuba City E-ship Hub for a special in-person workshop with Dr. Lynnette C. Gilmore, a licensed Diné physical therapist and Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. Learn how to care for your body throughout your workday with simple adjustments, stretches, and movement routines that can make a lasting impact on your overall well-being.
In this workshop, you’ll learn:
How to set up an ergonomic workspace
Easy stretches to release tension and improve posture
Daily movement strategies to prevent pain and overuse injuries
How to build a self-care routine that fits your lifestyle
Why attend in person?
Dr. Gilmore will be on-site at the Tuba City E-ship Hub to demonstrate techniques and help participants with form, making this a valuable hands-on experience. If you’re able, we highly encourage you to attend in person for the full benefit!
Whether you’re deskbound, on your feet all day, or somewhere in between, you’ll walk away with practical tools to feel better and move better—every day.
About the Presenter:
Dr. Lynnette C. Gilmore, PT, DPT-Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist, is from Grandfalls, Arizona, and an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation. Licensed since 2009, she is a certified APTA Clinical Instructor, a board-certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist, and a passionate advocate for health and wellness in Native communities.
For any questions or support with registering for this workshop, please contact us at hello@nativestartup.org.
You can also watch our past workshops on the Change Labs YouTube Channel.
E-mobility and clean energy summit
Please join the Arizona Technology Council for its third annual E-Mobility and Clean Energy Summit on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.
Get ready to be part of the electrifying energy revolution in Arizona!
Our state is on the fast track to becoming a tech powerhouse in e-mobility and clean energy. Join us at our 3rd annual summit as we dive into the future of this booming industry. Don’t miss out on the chance to connect with top companies and partners dedicated to shaping a sustainable energy future for Arizona. It’s time to spark change and power up for a brighter tomorrow!
Record keeping & Building good financial habits
This workshop has been cancelled—follow us on social media or visit our events page for future updates and rescheduling.
Good financial habits can make or break a business. In this session, you’ll learn simple, effective ways to track your income, expenses, and cash flow—so you always know where your money is going. We’ll explore different recordkeeping methods, from basic spreadsheets to digital tools, and help you set up a system that fits your business. You’ll also learn how to organize your financial records for tax season and loan applications, making it easier to qualify for funding when you need it.
What You’ll Learn:
Why financial recordkeeping is critical for business success
How to set up a simple system to track income and expenses
The basics of a chart of accounts and how to categorize transactions
Tools and apps that make financial tracking easier
How good recordkeeping prepares you for tax season and loan applications
Don't miss this session with Navajo accountant, Delphina Begay!
Take the mystery out of financial projections
This workshop will be held in-person on Saturday June 21st at the Tuba City E-ship Hub.
In this engaging workshop designed for entrepreneurs and prospective borrowers of our NSBCI loan program, Change Labs co-founder, Jessica Stago, will help you navigate your businesses financial path by creating realistic, clear projections with confidence. Learn how to forecast revenue, anticipate costs, and plan for growth—all while keeping things practical and approachable. By the end of the session, you’ll have the tools to make informed decisions, impress lenders, and map out your path to success. No spreadsheets or finance degree required—just your passion and a willingness to learn!
Flow & Feast
Join us for our next event, Flow & Feast — a day of movement, mindfulness, and connection centered around community wellness and local flavor.
Spend your Saturday grounding yourself in intention and ending it with celebration. This free event welcomes all levels and all ages — whether you’re here for the yoga, the food, or the vibe.
What to Expect
• Morning Yoga Session at 10:00 AM
Led by Haley Laughter of Hozho Total Wellness, this energizing session will help you start the day centered and strong.
• Evening Yoga & Live DJ at 5:30 PM
Unwind with a gentle yoga flow guided by Haley Laughter, followed by a live DJ set by Alton Lizer.
• Feast with us at 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Stick around after the evening session for Food Truck Lane, where local food vendors will be serving up delicious eats.
This free event is open to all — come flow with us and feast after!
Interested in being a vendor? Reach out to our teammate, Sophia, at Sophia@changelabs.org for more information.
Networking in Indian Country: Building Meaningful Connections
Join us for a 90-minute workshop on the importance of networking through an Indigenous lens. Rooted in values of kinship, reciprocity, and respect, this session explores how Native entrepreneurs, professionals, and community members can strengthen their networks to create lasting opportunities for collaboration and growth.
We’ll begin with a personal introduction and a discussion on why networking is especially vital in Indian Country. Together, we’ll explore how our traditional values naturally align with the foundations of strong professional relationships.
Throughout the session, we’ll cover:
Where and how to connect: From powwows and conferences to digital platforms like LinkedIn and Native business directories.
Culturally grounded strategies: Respecting protocols, showing up for your community, and offering value before asking for help.
Overcoming challenges: Addressing barriers like distance and access, and finding solutions through mentorship and Native-led networks.
Creating your personal action plan: Identify new networks, set meaningful goals, and take your next steps with confidence.
This workshop is open to especially those interested in strengthening their professional relationships while honoring Indigenous values. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your circle, you’ll leave with actionable strategies and renewed inspiration to build community through connection.
Let’s uplift one another—because in Indian Country, relationships are Everything.
About Jacob Crane : Jacob is an Indigenous Entrepreneur and enjoys building startup companies that positively impact Native communities. Like many, he wishes to see more conscious Tribal investment for future generations, that also creates platforms to build stronger robust Indigenous economies. In the past, Jacob was a part of the Renewing Indigenous Economies Cohort with the Hoover Institute located at Stanford University. He currently is apart of the National Advisory Committee on Inclusive Practices (NACIP) for Waterford Upstart, an early-learning nonprofit organization. Most recently, Jacob has received the 2024 Outstanding Nonprofit Leaders Award from the Utah Nonprofit Association, and is a 2025 Native American 40 Under 40 Awardee from the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development.
The Road to Financial Management
June Events with Hopi Credit Association
Join Hopi Credit Association this June for a series of financial education classes and a special community outreach day!
The Road to Financial Management: Three-Part Course
Location: Tewa Community Building
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 PM MST
Dates:
Part 1 – Tuesday, June 3, 2025: Money Culture, Financial Goal Setting, and Budgeting
Part 2 – Tuesday, June 10, 2025: Budgeting (continued) and Retirement Planning
Part 3 – Tuesday, June 17, 2025: Credit and You, and Being a Smart Consumer
Attend all three sessions and receive an incentive! Light dinner will be provided.
Right-sizing your loan request
How much should you ask for when applying for an NSBCI loan (or any loan)? Asking for too little can leave you stuck. Asking for too much can hurt your chances of getting approved. This workshop will help you find the just right number for your business. Join one of Change Labs’ most sought after business coach, Holly Patterson, for a practical session on how to right-size your loan request based on your goals, cash flow, and capacity to repay. We’ll cover:
How to match your loan amount to your actual business needs
What lenders look for when reviewing your request
How to avoid red flags and strengthen your application
Tools to help you calculate and justify your loan amount
Whether you're expanding, launching, or just trying to stay afloat, this workshop will help you approach your loan request with confidence and clarity.
Marketing Ops & Donor Journey Mapping
Want to improve donor retention and personalize outreach? Join Marketing Ops expert, Maarten Bovend'aerde, for a 60-minute session on mapping the donor journey using CRM-driven strategies. Learn how to track engagement, automate impact, and make every donor feel valued.
Back to the Basics: Fundamentals of Grant Writing
The Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family (GOYFF) is hosting a FREE, virtual Grant Writing Workshop for individuals interested in learning more about the fundamentals of grant writing. The workshop will include:
Skill-building for writing successful grant applications
Grant writing language and techniques
Knowledge of reputable grant funding sources
Due to limited space, registration will automatically close once it reaches full capacity.
Tribal Commercial Law Training 1
Join us at Wild Horse Pass for an interactive training course that highlights the nexus between law and business development. Attendees will learn how legal reforms can lead to and strengthen economic development. Furthermore, attendees will learn how the lessons from law and development apply in Indian Country. Sessions will be led by Native business owners, law professors, attorneys, and economists.
Tribal Commercial Law is a practical course designed for tribal leaders, tribal judges, and those who do business in Indian Country.
Scholarships are available thanks to generous funding from the John Templeton Foundation. If interested in applying for one, please contact Skaustin@theacesschool.com before registering.
There is a room block discount available for the nights of June 11 and June 12
Registrants can call the Resort at (520) 796-4900 and mention "Tribal Commercial Law Training 1"
Note that guests will need to provide their own credit or debit card for Room & Tax plus an incidental hold at check-in.
Please book by May 13, 2025, to receive this discount.
Building a Business Budget
Ready to apply for an NSBCI loan but not sure how to show your numbers? Join Change Labs Manager of Kinship Lending, Kristine Laughter, for a hands-on workshop designed to help you build a business budget that lenders can understand and trust. In this workshop, you'll learn:
What a basic business budget looks like
How to estimate your income and expenses
How to calculate how much funding you really need
Tips for using your budget to support your NSBCI loan application
We’ll walk through real examples, share templates you can use, and make sure you leave with a draft budget for your business—even if you're just starting out. Perfect for anyone applying for an NSBCI loan or thinking about borrowing in the future. Bring your notebook, your ideas, and your questions. Let’s get your numbers working for you!
The 2-page business plan
Join our Two-Page Business Plan Workshop to learn how to create a streamlined, action plan that captures your vision, strategy, and key operational details — all in just two pages! This hands-on, interactive session is perfect for entrepreneurs, startups, and small business owners looking to articulate their goals without getting bogged down by lengthy documents. Hosted by Dine' founder of WaterPeak Partners, Joe Bia.
What is the Navajo Small Business Credit Initiative?
Have you heard of the NSBCI but aren't quite sure what it means for your business or nonprofit? Join Change Labs executive director, Heather Fleming, for a free info session that breaks down the Navajo Small Business Credit Initiative (NSBCI)—a new source of funding and support for Navajo-owned small businesses. In this session, we’ll explain: * What the NSBCI is and how it works * The different types of loans and funding available * Who qualifies and how to apply * How NSBCI can help you grow or start your business on Navajo land Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this workshop will help you understand how to tap into this major opportunity for Navajo entrepreneurs. Bring your questions—we’re here to help!
Building a Business Budget
Ready to apply for an NSBCI loan but not sure how to show your numbers? Join Change Labs Manager of Kinship Lending, Kristine Laughter, for a hands-on workshop designed to help you build a business budget that lenders can understand and trust. In this workshop, you'll learn:
What a basic business budget looks like
How to estimate your income and expenses
How to calculate how much funding you really need
Tips for using your budget to support your NSBCI loan application
We’ll walk through real examples, share templates you can use, and make sure you leave with a draft budget for your business—even if you're just starting out. Perfect for anyone applying for an NSBCI loan or thinking about borrowing in the future. Bring your notebook, your ideas, and your questions. Let’s get your numbers working for you!
AAED Tribal Symposium
Change Labs at the Tribal Symposium – May 29, 2025
Join Marsha Greyeyes, Director of Finance at Change Labs, and Martin Guerrero, Director of Business Empowerment at Block, at the upcoming Tribal Symposium on May 29, 2025!
They’ll be featured on the Entrepreneurship & Small Business Growth panel, where they’ll discuss strategies for empowering Native entrepreneurs and supporting small business growth in Tribal communities.
View the full agenda and register here:
https://members.aaed.com/events/tribal-symposium-1340064
Pricing your products & services
Discover how to align your business goals with effective revenue models and pricing strategies in this interactive workshop designed for Native entrepreneurs. Learn how to evaluate different ways to earn income, set prices that reflect the value of your work, and ensure financial sustainability for your business. We'll explore examples rooted in Native-owned ventures and discuss strategies that honor cultural values while meeting market demands. By the end of the session, you’ll have actionable insights to grow your revenue, retain customers, and build a thriving business that supports your community and vision for the future. Hosted by Marsha Greyeyes at Change Labs.
Recordkeeping & Building good financial habits
Good financial habits can make or break a business. In this session, you’ll learn simple, effective ways to track your income, expenses, and cash flow—so you always know where your money is going. We’ll explore different recordkeeping methods, from basic spreadsheets to digital tools, and help you set up a system that fits your business. You’ll also learn how to organize your financial records for tax season and loan applications, making it easier to qualify for funding when you need it.
What You’ll Learn:
Why financial recordkeeping is critical for business success
How to set up a simple system to track income and expenses
The basics of a chart of accounts and how to categorize transactions
Tools and apps that make financial tracking easier
How good recordkeeping prepares you for tax season and loan applications
Don't miss this session with Navajo accountant, Delphina Begay!
Federal trademark searching: Overview
This webinar will introduce you to the fundamental mechanics of using our trademark search system. It’s geared toward new users and those interested in conducting basic searches. We’ll cover:
Why you should search
Basic search strategy
Common searches
Finding help
This information will be presented live via Webex from 3-4 p.m. ET on Friday, May 23, and will conclude with a question-and-answer session.
Right-sizing your loan request
How much should you ask for when applying for an NSBCI loan (or any loan)? Asking for too little can leave you stuck. Asking for too much can hurt your chances of getting approved. This workshop will help you find the just right number for your business. Join one of Change Labs’ most sought after business coach, Holly Patterson, for a practical session on how to right-size your loan request based on your goals, cash flow, and capacity to repay. We’ll cover:
How to match your loan amount to your actual business needs
What lenders look for when reviewing your request
How to avoid red flags and strengthen your application
Tools to help you calculate and justify your loan amount
Whether you're expanding, launching, or just trying to stay afloat, this workshop will help you approach your loan request with confidence and clarity.