Wells Fargo and LISC support the digital needs of Native entrepreneurs

Wells Fargo and LISC have awarded Change Labs with $110,000 to support Native entrepreneurs with business training and provide critical digital literacy programming. 

In April, Change Labs and Nez Technologics launched a Tech Assessment designed to understand the software and equipment needs of Native entrepreneurs, diagnose effectiveness of their internet equipment and document internet speeds at home, and gauge interest and desire for technology literacy training. The assessment will serve 50 Native business owners and artisans and help address the needs of those with significant technology gaps. With LISC funding, Change Labs will be able subsidize internet fees and/or lease equipment to entrepreneurs to help them operate online. The funding will also support a four-part Digital Literacy series to launch later this year. 

In an informal survey conducted by Change Labs at previous Navajo Nation Fairs, less than 10% of participating business owners indicated having an online presence prior to COVID-19. Since the pandemic brought vending and tourism to a halt on the Navajo Nation, there is increasing demand from entrepreneurs seeking assistance with tools and strategies for selling online. However, in order to effectively sell online requires regular internet access, an understanding of vending platforms and payment platforms, and digital marketing knowledge. This grant funding will equip entrepreneurs with the underlying tools and knowledge they need so to successfully operate an online business. Change Labs is grateful to Wells Fargo and LISC for acknowledging and addressing this immediate needs of entrepreneurs!