Change Labs Named Winner of the 2020 .ORG Impact Awards

RESTON, Va., Dec. 3, 2020 -- Public Interest Registry (PIR), the People behind .ORG, today named Change Labs as one of the 10 winners of the 2nd annual .ORG Impact Awards.

The mission-driven organization was honored in the Championing Equity, Equality and Inclusion category for its work to support entrepreneurs within the Navajo and Hopi Nations.

Change Labs was designed to create a safe place for entrepreneurs and community members to explore and develop their ideas. This organization provides the infrastructure, expertise and support structures for the first three years of the entrepreneurial journey. Change Labs is taking measurable steps towards increasing the number of Native-owned small businesses operating in Native communities. The organization provides a physical address, internet access, desk space, software access, financial planning, leadership development and other tools to allow Native-owned small businesses to develop and grow.

Change Labs will receive a $5,000 USD donation and will be honored as part of the Days of .ORG online experience that celebrates the range of achievements that have healed, inspired, transformed and connected communities over the past year. Each day of the 10-day celebration will place a spotlight on award-winning organizations and individuals making our communities a better place.

“Supporting our Native communities through entrepreneurship is just one way that we can ensure the continued economic sovereignty of the Navajo and Hopi Nations,” said Heather Fleming (Diné), Executive Director of Change Labs. “Change Labs is committed to offering as many resources as possible to Native Americans who want to make social change by owning their own small business.”

“Congratulations to Change Labs for being named the 2020 .ORG Impact Award winner in the Championing Equity, Equality and Inclusion category,” said Jon Nevett, President and CEO of the Public Interest Registry. “Their work is a critical part of providing equity and opportunity to Native Americans seeking to achieve their dreams by becoming small business owners.”

This year, PIR saw an extremely impressive group of submissions showcasing the diverse and inspiring work taking place in the .ORG Community. More than 500 organizations and individuals submitted entries to the 2020 .ORG Impact Awards. Submissions were reviewed and scored by a panel of judges who are leaders in the Internet, non-profit and marketing sectors. All nominations were required to be tied to an active website with a .ORG domain.

Award winners will receive a donation of up to $30,000 USD to an eligible charitable entity of their choice. Please visit www.orgimpactawards.org for complete rules and information.