AGENDA
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7
8:30AM
Breakfast & Welcome Address
The Navajo E-ship Coalition welcomes you to the 6th Annual All Roads Lead to Chaco Canyon.
9:00 - 10:15AM
History of Indian Law: this is why we can’t have nice things
Speaker: Joseph Austin (Austin Law Firm)
Have you ever wondered why things are the way they are on the reservation? Back by popular demand, listen as Navajo attorney, Joseph Austin, discusses how federal Indian law has played a major role in contributing to the devastating social statistics on reservations and current state of Native Nations. Understanding federal Indian Law is important for purposes of understanding the issues in Indian Country and how we formulate solutions to our most pressing challenges.
Local Governance Act & Chapter Taxes: Navigating the Challenges and Benefits of LGA Chapter Tax Codes
Moderator: Marsha Greyeyes (Shonto Chapter)
As more Chapters explore the possibility of expanding their autonomy and governance authority under the Local Governance Act (LGA), it is critical to understand both the potential benefits and the challenges that come with it. This panel discussion will bring together Chapter leaders, policymakers, and economic experts to explore the opportunities that the LGA may present, such as increased local revenue, funding for infrastructure projects, and greater autonomy in driving local development. Join us for a candid conversation on how Chapters can use LGA authority to promote sustainable development and strengthen their communities while addressing the practical challenges of implementation.
10:30 - 11:45AM
Unlocking E-Commerce Potential for Native Entrepreneurs
Moderator: Adam Crepelle
Speakers: Kyle St. Amour Brennan (Shopify), Chairman Marshall Pierite (Tunica-Biloxi Tribe)
E-commerce offers a transformative opportunity for entrepreneurs to expand their businesses beyond the boundaries of the reservation, reaching national and global markets. This session will explore how digital commerce can serve as a powerful tool for economic growth, creating new revenue streams and fostering entrepreneurial resilience. Policy makers, economic developers, and entrepreneurs alike will gain a better understanding of the opportunities and challenges of e-commerce and how a supportive policy framework can catalyze economic growth for small businesses. This session is designed for both entrepreneurs looking to enter the online marketplace and policymakers interested in fostering a digital economy on reservation lands. Join us to learn how e-commerce can empower the entrepreneurial community and strengthen economic independence.
12:00 - 1:30PM
Lunch & and a conversation about Leveraging the Navajo Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) for Navajo Economic Growth
Moderator: Heather Fleming (Change Labs)
Speakers: Patricia Slim (Navajo DED), Kristine Laughter (Change Labs)
The State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) is a powerful tool designed to expand access to capital for small businesses, particularly in underserved communities. In this session, we will delve into how the SSBCI program can be a game-changer for Navajo entrepreneurs, unlocking new avenues for business growth and development. By providing credit support and facilitating partnerships with lenders, SSBCI helps overcome the challenges many Native-owned businesses face when accessing traditional funding sources. The session will also cover how the program aligns with broader economic strategies on the Navajo Nation, with potential to stimulate job creation, enhance financial stability, and promote long-term economic independence.
The Power of Data: How Chapters Can Strengthen Their Communities Through Local Data Collection
Moderator: Jessica Stago (Change Labs)
Speakers: Alisha Murphy (Navajo DED), Kim Kanuho (Fourth World Design Group)
Data is a powerful tool for driving informed decisions, securing funding, and shaping the future of Navajo Nation communities. This session will highlight the benefits of establishing effective data collection methods at the Chapter level and how Chapters can use data to support community development, attract investment, and enhance services. By gathering accurate information on population demographics, infrastructure needs, and business activities, Chapters can make stronger cases for funding, improve planning efforts, and create targeted programs that directly benefit their communities. When Chapters work together to build a reliable data network, they contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of economic conditions across the Nation. This helps inform Navajo-wide policies and promote economic development that benefits all Navajo communities.
2:00 - 3:15PM
The Role of Tribal Courts in Supporting Economic Development
Speaker: Raymond Austin (NAU
Tribal courts play a vital role in fostering a stable and conducive environment for economic development within Native Nations. This session will explore how judicial systems can protect businesses and provide a framework for resolving disputes that may arise in commercial activities. Panelists will discuss how an effective judicial system can build trust among investors and businesses, ensuring that commercial transactions are fair, transparent, and grounded in community values. The session will also cover the challenges tribal courts face in the context of economic development, including resource limitations, jurisdictional issues, and the need for ongoing legal education.
3:30-4:45PM
Business Site Leasing: process and opportunity
Moderator: Tony Hale
Speakers: Elaine Young (Navajo RBDOs), Frances Sjoberg (Navajo DOJ), Audrey Charley (Navajo DOJ)
Navigating the business site leasing process is a complex but critical aspect of developing and growing the private sector economy in the Navajo Nation. The session will offer a candid look at the many hurdles that come with obtaining a business site lease on the Navajo Nation and the proposed amendments to the Business Site Leasing Act. Panelists will discuss potential policy solutions that can create a more streamlined, transparent process for land withdrawals and business site leasing while respecting community needs and concerns.
5:00 - 6:30PM MST
Networking and cocktails
Grab a drink and get to know your fellow attendees! Your ticket includes a complimentary beverage for our evening networking & cocktails event!
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8
8:30AM
Breakfast & Sponsors Welcome
9:00 - 10:15AM
Expanding Horizons: Revitalizing International Trade Among Native Nations
Moderator: Amanda Smith (Native American Business Association)
Speakers: Joseph Austin, Jenni Walke (Elephant in the Room Consulting)
In an increasingly globalized world, Native Nations have the unique opportunity to revitalize their old way of doing business: international trade. Through international trade, Native Nations can reach markets around the world and foster partnerships with other nations. This session will provide an overview of how Native Nations can tap into the global economy by revitalizing their old trade networks. Additionally, the session will also highlight how trade between Native Nations can strengthen economic ties, create mutually beneficial partnerships, and promote cultural exchange. Join us to learn how Native Nations can achieve broader economic growth by engaging in international trade and business beyond their reservation borders.
The Impact of State Taxation on Indian Country: Challenges and Consequences for Native Communities
Moderator: Derrick Watchman
Speakers: Senator Theresa Hathalie (State of Arizona), Attorney General Fred Urbina (Pascua Yaqui Tribe)
State taxation policies present significant challenges for Native Nations, often hindering economic development and undermining the sovereignty of tribal governments. This session will delve into the complexities of dual taxation, where both state and tribal governments impose taxes on the same income or transactions, creating a burden that disproportionately affects Native businesses and communities. Participants will explore how state taxation can complicate economic activities within Indian country, resulting in reduced revenue for tribal governments and limiting the resources available for community development. The session will examine the trickle-down effect of existing state tax systems, highlighting how these policies can stifle entrepreneurship, discourage investment, and ultimately perpetuate cycles of poverty in Native communities. Join us to learn how addressing state taxation challenges can foster greater economic resilience and sovereignty for Indian country.
10:30 - 12:00PM MST
Breaking Barriers: Why Non-Native Corporations Should Engage with Tribal Nations
Moderator: Adam Crepelle
Speaker: Chad Johnson (The Akana Group)
While Native Nations offer unique business opportunities, many non-Native corporations are hesitant to engage in partnerships or establish operations on a reservation. This session will feature a panel of business leaders and experts to explore why non-Native companies often avoid doing business on reservation lands, despite the economic opportunities and potential for mutually beneficial business relationships. We will examine the hurdles these corporations perceive, including concerns about navigating tribal governance, understanding land and leasing policies, and the complexities of legal and regulatory frameworks. Panelists will offer insights into how these challenges can be overcome through collaboration, education, and open dialogue.
Strengthening Chapter Collaboration: Defining Land Boundaries and Building Planning & Zoning Capacity
Moderator: Joe Austin
Speakers: Marsha Greyeyes (Shonto Chapter)
For Navajo Nation Chapters, clearly defined land boundaries and effective planning and zoning are essential for fostering community growth, economic development, and sustainable land use. This session will focus on how Chapter leaders can collaborate to establish shared boundaries and develop the necessary infrastructure to manage land planning and zoning within their communities. The session will also cover strategies for building local capacity in planning and zoning, including accessing technical expertise, forming partnerships, and utilizing available resources to support land management efforts.
12:00 - 1:00PM
Networking Lunch and an NSBCI Rehash!
Grab your lunch, connect with peers!
1:15 - 2:30PM MST
Attracting and Managing Capital for Chapter and Community Projects
Moderator: Jessica Stago (Change Labs)
Speakers: Onawa Haynes (Hozhonigo Consulting), Prestene Garnanez (NTCDC)
Accessing capital for community projects is critical for Navajo Nation Chapters and organizations to fund infrastructure, housing, economic development, and other vital initiatives. This session will provide participants with insight on how to attract, secure, and manage funding for their projects. From grant opportunities and government funding to private investments and partnerships, we’ll explore the diverse avenues available to pursue financing for community projects and how effective capital management can drive long-term, sustainable development.
SPONSOR
If your company or organization is interested in discussing sponsorship opportunities for All Roads Lead to Chaco Canyon 2023, please refer to our sponsorship details or email Candice Mendez.