At the 5th annual Native CDFI Summit in Washington, D.C., Difference Makers host Elyse Wild caught up with Native CDFI leaders who are transforming their communities through small business support. From NACDC Financial Services' strategic property acquisitions in Montana to MNI Sota Fund's ambitious $19 million campaign in Minneapolis, these executives shared how they're creating spaces, opportunities, and pathways to success for Indigenous entrepreneurs. Through business incubators, expanded loan funds, and innovative programs, Native CDFIs are proving that strong small businesses build strong communities. Read their stories and get a glimpse of what's ahead for these difference makers in Indian Country.

Difference Makers 2.0 is a new yearlong series that highlights how Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) work alongside their small business clients to accelerate change and create economic opportunities in Native communities. Join the Native CDFI Network and Tribal Business News as they shine a spotlight on the people accelerating economic change in Indian Country. Read the stories here and be sure to tune into the Difference Makers 2.0 podcast.

From paralegal burnout to thriving entrepreneur: Rudy Serrano's story shows how the right support can transform a career. After 19 years in law, Rudy found his true calling in mobile RV repair, backed by the Tigua Community Development Corporation's comprehensive business development program.

Today, Roadhouse Mobile RV Repair and Inspection serves travelers across the country, combining Rudy's technical expertise with sound business practices learned through TCDC's Native Pathways program. His story proves that with proper guidance and determination, career pivots can lead to both personal fulfillment and business success. #NativeCDFI #SmallBusiness #IndigenousEntrepreneurship #NativeOwned

Difference Makers 2.0 is a new yearlong series that highlights how Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) work alongside their small business clients to accelerate change and create economic opportunities in Native communities. Join the Native CDFI Network and Tribal Business News as they shine a spotlight on the people accelerating economic change in Indian Country. Read the stories here and be sure to tune into the Difference Makers 2.0 podcast.

Alaska Native John Hillman spent years working away from his hometown of Hoonah, a remote Tlingit community in Alaska's Alexander Archipelago. When cruise ships began bringing tourists to his community in 2019, he saw his chance to return home. With support from Native CDFI Spruce Root, he and his wife launched Wilderness Island Tours, the area's only Indigenous-owned tour operator, sharing their culture and love of the local wilderness with visitors.

Difference Makers 2.0 is a new yearlong series that highlights how Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) work alongside their small business clients to accelerate change and create economic opportunities in Native communities. Join the Native CDFI Network and Tribal Business News as they shine a spotlight on the people accelerating economic change in Indian Country. Read the stories here and be sure to tune into the Difference Makers 2.0 podcast.