Conferences
Money Management and Business Management Curriculum for American Indian Agricultural Businesses
Karli Salisbury
Summary
It is difficult in many circumstances for farmers and ranchers to have economically viable operations. This is even truer in Indian Country where there are more restrictions and regulations. American Indians and Alaskan Natives have the highest poverty rate (27%) of any race or ethnicity. Farmers and ranchers in Indian Country have more difficulty with financing and regulations and less access to trained agriculture professionals to develop business plans.
The project started with a needs assessment of over 250 surveys from 25 Federally Recognized Tribal Extension Program (FRTEP) agents and participants at the Intertribal Agricultural Council Annual Meeting. Input was also received from two 1994 Tribal Colleges. One of the biggest needs was money management or basic financial literacy issues. The other was evaluating new business ideas.
The Managing Money Curriculum consists of eight modules that cover various aspects of budgeting, loans, and savings. The Business Management Curriculum includes seven modules that cover business plans, marketing and financial analysis. Modules also cover Indian Land Tenure issues and regulations unique to American Indians. All of the modules use accessible for American Indian users with culturally appropriate, design and examples. The modules build on each other, but can also be the basis of stand-alone presentations or workshops.
The curriculum is being tested by two 1994 Tribal Colleges as well as FRTEP agents. This session will go over the availability of the curriculum, how it is being received, and the lessons and outcomes of the collaboration.
Details
| Conference | 2017 Extension Risk Management Education National Conference |
| Presentation Type | 30-Minute Concurrent |