Native entrepreneurs contribute to North Dakota business growth

Native American entrepreneurs are playing a growing role in North Dakota’s expanding small business economy, according to reporting by KFYR-TV. In an interview with the station, Lisa Young Bear, owner of The Fringe boutique in Bismarck, said Native-owned businesses benefit from strong community support as the Native population and entrepreneurial activity continue to grow.

Young Bear said Sacred Pipe Resource Center supported her business through workshops, counseling and technical assistance but challenges remain, including limited access to grants and resources and difficulties reaching customers beyond the Native community. Young Bear said Native customers make up most of her clientele and added that operating costs remain high. She said she plans to expand her e-commerce platform to reach a broader audience.