First loan approved under the Navajo Small Business Credit Initiative

Change Labs announces historic milestone in expanding access to capital for Navajo entrepreneurs on and off the Navajo Nation

Tuba City, Navajo Nation (AZ)  — The Navajo Small Business Credit Initiative (NSBCI) has officially approved its first loan, a significant step forward in the lending program’s goal of deploying $6.65 million in loans over the next two years to Navajo-owned businesses. 

“This first loan is more than a financial transaction — it’s a powerful step toward restoring economic self-determination for our people, “said Brenda Jesus, Navajo Nation Council Delegate. “By investing in our own entrepreneurs, we are building a future where opportunity grows from within our communities,” 

Alvina Earnhart, the recipient of this historic first NSBCI loan, is the owner and managing partner of Red House Law PC and an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation with more than 15 years of legal experience specializing in Federal Indian law. Originally from Coyote Canyon (Brimhall), New Mexico, she is born from the Kin łichii'nii—Red House People clan and born for the Bit'ahnii—Folded Arms People clan.

“As a Navajo woman and small business owner, I am deeply honored to be the first recipient of a loan offered through the Navajo Small Business Credit Initiative,” said Earnhart. “This program is a meaningful step toward economic empowerment and self-determination for Navajo entrepreneurs. Access to capital enables Native-owned businesses like mine to grow, serve our communities more effectively and continue the work of building a stronger future for the Navajo Nation.”

The NSBCI loan program is part of the US Treasury’s State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), created in 2010 by Congress to increase access to credit for small businesses. As a result of the pandemic, Congress expanded the SSBCI to include Tribal governments, allocating $500 million for Tribes to invest in small businesses owned by tribally enrolled citizens and nonprofits controlled by tribal members. The inaugural loan was facilitated by Change Labs, a Navajo nonprofit supporting local entrepreneurs. Change Labs administers NSBCI programs alongside the Navajo Division of Economic Development. 

“Approving our first loan under the NSBCI is a milestone not just for Change Labs, but for the Navajo Nation,” said Heather Fleming, executive director of Change Labs. “It’s proof that Native-led institutions can manage and distribute capital in ways that reflect the values and realities of our communities.”

Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren applauded the approval: “Our entrepreneurs are the heartbeat of the Navajo economy. This first loan marks a new chapter—one where the Nation stands behind its small business owners with real resources and trust. We’re not just supporting businesses; we’re strengthening families, communities, and our sovereignty.”

The NSBCI offers loan guarantees and participating loan amounts from $10,000 up to $20 million. Eligible businesses and nonprofits are encouraged to apply for the NSBCI if working capital is needed for expanding business operations, equipment financing, or consolidating  existing high-interest loans and credit card debt.

To prepare potential borrowers for the process of applying for a loan, Change Labs offers a wide range of services including financial education and training programs, executive coaching, mentorship and network building. Their business incubator program has been increasingly successful in providing its participants with long-term business support — from learning the fundamentals of starting a business to accessing resources such as brand development, legal support and lending opportunities.

Entrepreneurs interested in applying for an NSBCI loan can contact either Change Labs or the Navajo Nation Division of Economic Development. To learn more about eligibility and support services, visit changelabs.org/nsbci.