Native American Heritage Month 2024

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is proud to celebrate Native American Heritage Month, in partnership with the Native American Chamber of Commerce of Illinois. This year’s celebration entails hosting an event uplifting Native American women, amplifying Native American business leaders, organizations, and business enterprises throughout the state, and celebrating the Native American community here in Illinois.

Voices of Strength: Inspirational Leadership Among Native American Women
Wednesday | November 20, 2024 | 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm | in-person | RSVP Required
555 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60661 (Illinois Room)

In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, "Voices of Strength" brings together a panel of distinguished Native American women leaders to discuss their powerful journeys of leadership, fortitude, and community impact. This event will highlight personal stories, challenges, and triumphs of Native American women who have become trailblazers in their respective fields, driving change and inspiring future generations.

The panelists will share their experiences in harmonizing cultural identity with modern leadership roles and how they continue to uplift their communities through advocacy, education, and social change. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the rich contributions Native American women make to society and how their voices shape the future.

The event is free to attend but registration is Required. Please RSVP https://bit.ly/3C2xE3H.

The event is hosted by the Native American Chamber of Commerce of Illinois, Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS), and the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO).

DCEO’s Office of Tourism has information on historic sites, exhibits and centers to visit in Illinois. To learn more, visit: https://www.enjoyillinois.com/things-to-do/arts-and-culture/celebrating-native-american-heritage-month-in-illinois/

The Native American Chamber of Commerce of Illinois provides one-on-one assistance, help businesses apply for state and other government grant programs, host business education events, and more. If you need assistance with your business, please contact the Native American Chamber of Commerce of Illinois to schedule an appointment. You can email them at: andrew@nacc-il.org.

Small Business Development Center (SBDC) – Centers located throughout the state provide no cost business counseling. SBDC’s can assist you with a business plan, marketing, financial bookkeeping, finding grants, how to start a business, how to grow your business, etc. To find one near you go to: https://viewer.blipstar.com/blipstar?uid=5161672.

Apex Accelerator (formerly Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTACs) – PTAC’s provide no cost assistance to businesses who want to get into the world of government contracting and assist with certifications like getting certified as minority/Native American owned. To find one near you, please click HERE.

There are several community events celebrating Native American-owned businesses and culture. Below is a list of organizations and events to consider attending and supporting this Native American Heritage Month:

• 21st Annual Native American Holiday Market at Collinsville VFW
• American Indian Center of Chicago
• Chicago American Indian Community Collaborative
• Celebrate Native American Heritage Month at the Field Museum
• First Nations Film and Video Festival
• Celebrate the works of Native American filmmakers and attend the First Nations Film and Video Festival from November 1-10, 2024. FNFVF Events for more information.
• Mitchell Museum of the American Indian
• Trickster Cultural Center

If you want to receive more information on resources for Native American businesses and entrepreneurs, consider signing up for our newsletter in which we will share business resources including grants and loans. Sign up HERE.

For more information on Native American Heritage Month contact Diana Alfaro at Diana.Alfaro@Illinois.gov or to learn more about ongoing resources and programs for businesses, follow DCEO on social media @IllinoisDCEO.