Oweesta Corporation

09/01/2026

What happens when you put curious minds, innovative ideas, and emerging technology in the same room? A whole lot of possibility. Last week in beautiful Spokane, WA, Native CDFI practitioners came together to roll up their sleeves and explore the real-world possibilities of AI from practical applications to new ways of thinking about how these tools can support their work.

We’re grateful for the great energy, creativity, and willingness to experiment that made this training so impactful. And a special thank you to Russ Seagle of Seagle Consulting for partnering with Oweesta to make this learning experience possible.

One participant shared:
“This was an incredible training experience! I gained a deeper understanding of how AI can be thoughtfully used as a tool to strengthen CDFI work while keeping our people, communities, and mission at the center. I am grateful for Oweesta and the trainers for this opportunity to learn.”

We can’t wait to see where Native CDFIs take these ideas next.

09/01/2026

Join Oweesta and colleagues from across the Native CDFI industry at OFN42, Opportunity Finance Network’s 42nd Annual Conference, October 20–23 in New Orleans! 🎉

With more than 2,100 CDFI practitioners, investors, funders, policymakers, and partners coming together, OFN42 is all about learning, connection, and collaboration.

And before the full conference programming begins, Native Gathering Day on Tuesday, October 20 will create a dedicated space for Native CDFIs and our supporters to gather, strengthen relationships, exchange ideas, and explore new opportunities to advance capital access in Native communities.

-Connect with Native CDFI practitioners, funders, investors, and partners.
-Exchange ideas and learn from others doing this work.
-Explore opportunities to strengthen and grow the Native CDFI industry.
-And stick around for a fun afternoon reception hosted by Oweesta!

Our agenda is filled with valuable information, interactive discussions, meaningful networking, and so much more. Reception details will be shared with registered Native Gathering Day attendees.

When you register for OFN42, be sure to add Native Gathering Day to your plans!

We can’t wait to gather with you in New Orleans! 💜

Register Here: https://www.ofnconference.org

08/27/2026

The Native American Agriculture Fund has committed $9.5 million in grants to 28 organizations supporting long-term capital access for Native producers. We are proud to see several Oweesta network partners among this year’s grantees!

Congratulations to Akiptan Inc., Four Bands Community Fund, Hochunk Community Capital, NACDC Financial Services, Northern Shores Community Development, and Wind River Development Fund!

These investments help strengthen Native agriculture, expand access to capital, and build stronger, more resilient Native economies. We’re excited to see what grows from here!

The Native American Agriculture Fund (NAAF) invests $9,499,315 in grants through its 2026 RFA cycle, funding 26 organizations and 28 total projects that expand farmers' and ranchers' access to capital. The grants reach Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), Tribal Nations and their in...

08/26/2026

There’s nothing quite like bringing a team together to learn, connect, share ideas, and bring that energy back home. Some of our Oweesta team had the opportunity to participate in the NeighborWorks Training Institute in Miami Beach, FL this month. Some of us soaking up new ideas and making connections, while others were there to facilitate our Building Native Communities: Money, Healing, and Relationships training.

We love opportunities like this that remind us how much there is to learn from one another and how powerful it is to create spaces for meaningful conversations, growth, and connection.

A big thank you to NeighborWorks America for bringing us together and creating space for learning and collaboration!
Interested in joining us for an upcoming Oweesta training? Check out our training calendar: www.oweesta.org/training-calendar.

08/12/2026

We’re looking for a Programs Officer to join our team and support the work we do alongside Native communities and Native CDFIs.

This position is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys facilitating learning while building relationships and supporting community-based programs. We’re looking for someone who offers energy, curiosity, and care into these spaces.

If you’re passionate about supporting Native communities and interested in being part of Oweesta’s work, we’d love to hear from you.

View the full position description:
https://oweesta.bamboohr.com/careers/25

And please share with someone who might be a great fit!

08/12/2026

Mni Sota Fund is hiring a Loan Administrator!

We are looking for a detail oriented and compassionate professional to support borrowers throughout the lending process. This position plays an important role in managing loan documentation, processing, servicing, compliance, and communication while helping expand economic opportunity within Native communities.

Salary: $75,000 to $82,000
Full time | Minneapolis, Minnesota

Learn more and apply at:
https://www.mnisotafund.org/careers

Know someone who may be a great fit? Please share this opportunity with them!

08/12/2026

We’re hiring a Business Program Director!

This position will lead culturally grounded business assistance programs that help Native entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses, overcome barriers, and move toward capital.

The ideal candidate brings experience in small business consulting, entrepreneurship advising, lending support, economic development, or managing client facing programs. They should also be passionate about Indigenous community wealth building and creating responsive, community centered services.

Salary: $88,000 to $95,000 per year
Full-time, Monday through Thursday
Located in Minneapolis
Open until filled

View the complete job description and application instructions at:
https://www.mnisotafund.org/careers -program-director-job-description

Please share this opportunity with your networks!

08/10/2026

What AI Can Really Do: A Hands-On Workshop for Native CDFIs
Artificial intelligence is changing the way organizations work, and now is the perfect time to learn how it can support your Native CDFI.
Join AI expert Russ Seagle for an interactive, hands-on workshop where you'll explore practical AI tools that can help your organization work smarter, save time, and better serve your community.

Why attend?
• Learn what AI is and what it isn't.
• Discover practical ways AI can support Native CDFIs.
• Compare today's leading AI tools and platforms.
• Watch live demonstrations of AI in action.
• Gain hands-on experience solving real-world challenges with AI.
• Leave with practical resources, completed work you can use right away, and the confidence to bring AI back to your office.
August 25 to 27, 2026
Spokane, WA

Registration is filling up, so don't wait to reserve your spot.
Register today: https://events.oweesta.org/d/tdzb72

07/23/2026

It was a wonderful week in beautiful Philadelphia as Oweesta hosted Building Native Communities: Financial Skills for Families, facilitated by our Senior Programs Officer, Vincent J. Grant.

Please join us in congratulating our newest certified trainers. These dedicated practitioners brought incredible energy, thoughtful perspectives, and a deep commitment to strengthening financial well-being in their communities.

Throughout the week, participants engaged in meaningful learning, hands-on activities, collaboration, and connection. There were plenty of opportunities to laugh, share experiences, and build lasting relationships, all while preparing to bring culturally relevant financial education back to the families they serve.

Thank you to each participant for your passion and dedication. We are excited to see the positive impact you will make in Native communities across the country.

Congratulations again to our newest Building Native Communities: Financial Skills for Families Certified Trainers!

07/23/2026

Oweesta is planning the annual Native Gathering Day at the Opportunity Finance Network Conference this October 20th in New Orleans, LA. We want the agenda to reflect the priorities of our Native CDFIs, partners, and community practitioners.

Please take 5 minutes to complete this short survey and share which session topics would be most useful to you. Your input will help us design conversations that are timely, practical, and grounded in the work happening across Native communities.

Survey deadline: July 10, 2026

Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ZVVZPFB