Indigenous Perspectives on Sustainability and Entrepreneurship
In this session, attendees will explore the unique perspectives and approaches of Indigenous communities towards sustainability and entrepreneurship. Indigenous cultures often possess deep-rooted connections to the land, environment, and traditional knowledge systems that offer valuable insights into sustainable practices and entrepreneurial endeavors.
- Overview of Indigenous worldviews and values related to sustainability, stewardship of natural resources, and community well-being
- Traditional ecological knowledge and practices that promote sustainable resource management and environmental conservation
- Indigenous entrepreneurship models, including social enterprises, cooperative ventures, and cultural tourism initiatives
- Challenges and opportunities faced by Indigenous entrepreneurs in balancing cultural values, economic development, and environmental sustainability
- Case studies highlighting successful Indigenous-led sustainability projects and businesses
Case Study: Community-Based Economic Development Within the Context of End–Of-Life Conversations
This case study will delve into the concepts of community-based economic development and social entrepreneurship with data from a regionally successful case study, focusing on how businesses can drive positive social and economic change at the local level.
- Community-based economic development and its emphasis on local ownership, collaboration, and sustainable growth
- Social entrepreneurship and its focus on addressing social, environmental, and economic challenges through innovative business solutions
- Role of social enterprises in creating positive impact, fostering social inclusion, and promoting community well-being
- Principles of community wealth building, social impact measurement, and stakeholder engagement in social entrepreneurship
Renewable Relationship-Building and Collaboration to Support Renewable Enterprises
In this session, attendees will explore the importance of relationship-building and collaboration within Indigenous communities, focusing on the principles of reciprocity, mutual respect, and collective well-being that underpin Indigenous ways of working together.
- Traditional values and protocols that guide relationship-building and communication within Indigenous communities
- Role of reciprocity, trust, and consensus-building in fostering collaboration and collective decision-making processes
- Traditional forms of governance, leadership structures, and community engagement practices within Indigenous contexts
- Discussion of the importance of cultural competence, humility, and active listening in building respectful relationships with Indigenous communities.
- Case studies illustrating successful examples of collaboration and partnership-building within Indigenous communities for economic development, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship
Funding Opportunities and Resources for Entrepreneurs
In this session, attendees will explore the various funding opportunities and resources available to support entrepreneurs starting and growing their businesses. While offering broad guidance, attendees will also learn about specific opportunities available to historically disenfranchised groups, including women and minority owned businesses, as well as indigenous communities and tribal governments in alignment with the US government’s Justice 40 initiative.
- Overcoming Funding Challenges for Indigenous Entrepreneurs
- Exploring Funding Sources for Entrepreneurs
- Alternative Funding Models
- Support Services and Resources for Entrepreneurs
- Crafting a Successful Business Plan and Partnership Strategy
EUCI is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its web site: 