Oweesta Related

Q:  What does “Oweesta” mean?
A:  “Oweesta” is a Mohawk word for money or item of exchange

Q:  What kinds of tribal businesses does Oweesta help?
A:  Oweesta helps create Native community development financial institutions (NCDFI) including business revolving loan funds, credit unions/associations, banks, venture capital institutions and housing loan funds.  These local organizations then have the capacity to assist individuals, businesses and organizations with financing and technical assistance for the development of small businesses, homeownership, community facilities, financial education programs, etc. in Native communities.  Click here to go to our Programs and Services.

Q:  How is Oweesta funded?
A:  Oweesta is supported through earned income from development services and investments, as well as a combination of private and public funds including foundations, federal programs, banks, other CDFIs, and individual donors.  We are not a federal, state or tribally-owned/run organization, but a private, national, Native CDFI intermediary serving all Native communities. Click here to see Our Supporters.

Q:  How is Oweesta connected to First Nations Development Institute?
A:  The present-day Oweesta Corporation began as the Oweesta Program and Fund of First Nations Development Institute back in the mid 1980s.  In 1999 Oweesta became a separate corporation that has grown into the premier Native CDFI intermediary in the country.  Click here for detailed Oweesta Timeline.