Building My Dream: Starting a Native-Owned Business

For years, I dreamed of starting my own construction company. Working in the industry for over a decade, I knew the business inside and out, but the capital requirements and bureaucratic hurdles seemed insurmountable. That changed when I learned about the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program and tribal business resources.

Discovering the 8(a) Program

A fellow tribal member who ran a successful IT company told me about the SBA 8(a) program, which helps small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals compete for federal contracts. As an enrolled Cherokee Nation member, I qualified to apply.

The Application Process

I won't sugarcoat it—the 8(a) application was extensive. It took me about six months to complete, with help from:

• Cherokee Nation Small Business Assistance: They provided free consulting and helped me prepare my business plan
• SBA Oklahoma District Office: Walked me through the requirements
• SCORE mentors: Retired business executives who reviewed my financials

Getting Certified

When my 8(a) certification came through, doors started opening. The certification gave my company: - Access to sole-source federal contracts up to $4 million - Set-aside contracts specifically for 8(a) businesses - Mentoring from established companies through the mentor-protégé program

Tribal Business Support

Beyond the 8(a) program, the Cherokee Nation provided additional resources: - **Business Development Grant**: $10,000 to help with startup costs - **Equipment financing**: Low-interest loan for construction equipment - **Networking**: Connections with other Native-owned businesses

Where We Are Today

Three years after certification, my construction company employs 15 people—mostly from our tribal community. We've completed over $5 million in federal contracts and recently won our first competitive contract outside the 8(a) program.

Advice for Aspiring Native Business Owners

1. Contact your tribal business development office first: They know the resources available
2. Consider the 8(a) program: It's work to get certified, but the benefits are substantial
3. Get help with your business plan: A solid plan is essential
4. Network with other Native business owners: Learn from their experiences
5. Be patient but persistent: Building a business takes time

The resources exist to help Native entrepreneurs succeed. It takes effort to access them, but the investment is worth it.