Native American Business Development Institute

Assistance Listing Number (ALN) 15.133, titled Native American Business Development Institute, is managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs’ Office of Indian Economic Development (OIED). Its primary purpose is to empower Federally Recognized Indian Tribal Governments and their members by funding feasibility studies, market analysis, and business planning. These studies help tribes assess economic opportunities—such as business parks, meat processing operations, renewable energy ventures, security firms, and more—and determine whether they’re financially viable and sustainable.

NABDI stands out because it specifically supports economic feasibility research and business planning, rather than funding construction or direct business operations. From its start in fiscal year 2006, NABDI partnered with U.S. graduate schools and, later, private consultants, under Public Law 93‑638 agreements to assist tribal leaders in evaluating the financial and strategic aspects of projects. In doing so, it helps tribes produce investor‑quality business plans and feasibility reports that are essential for securing funding and attracting partners.

Only Federally Recognized Indian Tribes and Tribal Organizations are eligible to apply, and both they and their tribal members benefit from the insights and planning support these grants provide. Funding is awarded competitively and with the amount and number of awards depending on federal appropriations and the quality of proposals.

What makes NABDI unique is its focus on strategic preparation rather than immediate implementation. By financing deep-dive market and technical studies, NABDI reduces risk for tribes and helps them make informed, confident decisions. Furthermore, this grant program encourages tribes to engage consultants and graduate institutions, bringing professional rigor and external validation to their economic initiatives.

By helping tribes build solid, research-backed business cases, NABDI strengthens tribal sovereignty and economic independence. It allows communities to move forward with ventures grounded in rigorous analysis rather than guesswork—ultimately fostering sustainable job creation, enhanced revenues, and broader community development throughout Indian Country.

This is an annual program whose primary objective is to create jobs and foster economic activity within tribal communities. When funding is available, IEED will solicit proposals for feasibility studies and reservation-wide plans. To receive these funds, tribes may use the contracting mechanism established by Public Law 93-638, the Indian-Self Determination Act or may obtain adjustments to their funding from the Office of Self-Governance. See 25 U.S.C. 450 et. seq.