Exciting Times for the Native American Business Alliance
(Jackie Gant - NABA National Executive Director - Oneida Nation of the Thames)

 

As 2009 comes to a close and a new year approaches upon us, I would like to take the opportunity to thank our event sponsors, corporate partners and general members for your continued support during this difficult economic climate.  Because of your determination and hearing our plea for your assistance, our mission and voice will continue to be heard and we are moving forward despite difficult the many challenges connected to the economic circumstances.  Additionally, I would like to thank our Board of Directors for their time, commitment and effort in their quest to meet those challenges placed before them and to layout the plan for our future as a National organization while answering the question “we need to do business in a different way-technology”.  Our goal is to get more Native American/Aboriginal Businesses certified as MBE and/or Woman Owned Businesses so they can answer the call when called upon by the Corporate Representative.

Your continued commitment to support the mission of the organization, along with the timely payment of membership dues, allows NABA to continue to have a presence at vital and important events promoted by Corporate Supplier Diversity Programs and MBE’s Associations and allows NABA to implement new programs and networking events for its memberships.  As a member of the NABA organization, your participation and directions, helps us to plan, coordinate and implement successful events such as our annual National Business/Procurement Conference and the Golf Outing Fundraiser and Cultural Event where networking and building business relationships is the common thread and goal.  Today, we are putting the final touches on the on-line teaching tool “NABA Learning Center” and we are developing ways to help you, the business owner, to be more efficient and to save you money in the long run with the Visa Cash Debit Credit Card/ATM.  Remember, as a business owner (entrepreneur) is about taking risk and NABA is right along with you in doing business a new way.

I look forward to all the possibilities and opportunities that come with a new year. Stay tuned for more information on new events, learning and networking events.  Similarly, NABA is once again pleased to promote is second annual winter hat and glove collection drive “Warming a thousand Hands, Heads, and Hearts.”  Please pick up a new pair of gloves, a hat, or a scarf for a needy child, adult, or elder today and send it to the NABA Office where it will be distributed to other local Native American community organizations. Last year, we were please to warm a thousand fingers and this year we’d like to warm two thousand! Help us to meet our goal.
Remember, 2010 presents new opportunities for us all.  Stay involved with professional organizations such as NABA, get out there and network and make new connections and explore new business relationships.  Find diverse ways to operate in a more cost effective and energy efficient manner. Get involved with your tribal community and give back where you can.  Most importantly, take care of your health, your family and remember NABA is here to assist you in your business-pick up the phone and call me - I want to hear from you! 

In closing, I wish you all a happy and healthy holiday season and a bright new year from all of at the Native American Business Alliance.

 

With warmest regards,

-Jackie Gant,
NABA National Executive Director