Your Business Journey Starts Here: Tips for Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurs

Do you have a business idea? Maybe you have thought about selling your artwork, launching a clothing brand, running a food truck, or offering tech services. Whatever you are dreaming of, know that your ideas are valid, and your community needs your creativity, energy, and leadership. 

As an Indigenous youth, you carry knowledge, resilience, and creativity that can shape the future. Starting a business isn't just about making money – it's about creating opportunities, building community, and sharing your gifts with the world. 

Here is a simple step-by-step guide to help you get started: 

1. Start with What You Love

Think about your interests, skills, and traditions. Your business should reflect you - your passions, your strengths, your culture.

Ask yourself: 

• What am I good at? 

• What do I enjoy doing? 

• What is something my community (or the world) needs?
  

Your idea could be traditional or modern, or a blend of both! Maybe you are great at fixing things, cooking, crafting, organizing events, or designing graphics. All of these can grow into a real business.  

Tip: Look at what is already working around you. Could you offer something similar but with your own twist? 

2. Write Down Your Idea

A business plan helps you think through your idea. Don't worry! It doesn't have to be long. Start simple: 

• What are you selling? 

• Who are your customers? 

• What will it cost to start? 

• How will you make money?
  

This is the beginning of your business plan. Your map to success. 

Tip: Try writing your plan like you are explaining your idea to a friend. This will help keep it clear and simple! 

3. Find Support (You Are Not Alone) 

Starting a business takes courage, but you don't have to do it all by yourself. Talk to people who've started businesses, Elders who know your community, and organizations that support youth entrepreneurs. They can help you shape your idea into a business plan, avoid mistakes, and stay grounded in your vision. 

Connect with organizations like NADF that offer support to Indigenous youth.  

Tip: Ask people what they wish they knew before they started their business, and you will learn a lot from their experiences! 

4. Explore Funding Opportunities 

Yes, money matters, and there funding out there just for you. From youth-focused grants to Indigenous business loans, you don't need to come up with everything on your own. Funding can help cover start-up costs, supplies, equipment, or marketing. 

Look for: 

• Youth entrepreneurship programs 

• Indigenous business financing (like NADF's programs) 

• Local economic development offices
  

Tip: Keep a list of deadlines for grants and funding. You don't want to miss out on opportunities! 

5. Make It Official 

Depending on where you live and what kind of business you are starting, you might need to: 

• Register your business name 

• Get licenses or permits 

• Set up a separate bank account for your business
  

This may sound intimidating, but there is guidance for this part too. NADF and other organizations can walk you through these steps. 

Tip: Ask others in your community how they set up their business. Local knowledge can be super helpful! 

6. Start Small, Dream Big

You don't need to launch a full-scale operation right away. Start small. Get feedback. Don't be afraid to make changes. Business isn't about being perfect - it is about learning and improving.  

Every successful entrepreneur started with one small step! 

• Sell at local markets 

• Offer your services to family and friends 

• Test your product and gather feedback
  

Small steps lead to big things. Every sale, every lesson learned, moves you forward. 

Tip: Give out a few samples or offer a discount to your first customers in exchange for honest feedback. This will help you improve! 

7. Keep Growing

Business is a journey and there is always more to learn. 

• Attend workshops 

• Network with other entrepreneurs 

• Stay connected to your community and culture
  

Remember, your business can make a difference for you, your family, and future generations. 

Tip: Make learning a habit. Set aside just one hour a week to read, watch a webinar, or connect with a mentor. It all adds up and keeps your business moving forward. 

8. Believe in Yourself

You have everything it takes to be a successful entrepreneur. You carry strength from your ancestors, innovation from your generation, and a vision for your future. 

Your business can create change for you, your family, and your community. 

Tip: Write down why you started, and on the tough days, reading your “why” can keep you motivated. 

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Starting your own business might feel like a big leap, but by taking it one step at a time - finding your passion, making a plan, reaching out for support, and staying connected – you are already on the path to success. Remember, every entrepreneur starts somewhere. Keep learning, stay rooted in who you are, and believe in your vision. Your business has the power to create opportunities not just for yourself, but for your family, community, and future generations. 

Ready to take the next step? 
NADF is here to walk with you. Reach out today for support with your business plan, funding options, or just to talk through your idea. 

Visit www.nadf.org or connect with us on social media.