At Blue Stone Strategy Partners, we know that economic diversification is more than just a business strategy—it’s the cornerstone of sovereignty, resilience, and prosperity for Tribal communities. The ability to adapt, grow, and sustain a diverse economic foundation...
Turning Policy Into Action: Driving Tribal Economic Growth and Sovereignty in 2025
The recently released NCAIED policy brief for the Trump Administration Transition Team endorsed by a collection of Native Organizations highlights key priorities for fostering economic growth, strengthening sovereignty, and improving opportunities for Tribal Nations....
Preparing for the End of ARPA Funding
As the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding period nears its conclusion, Tribal Communities across the nation are reflecting on the critical role these funds played in addressing urgent needs. From healthcare improvements to essential infrastructure projects, ARPA...
Understanding CEDS and Its Impact
A Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (or CEDS), provides a structured framework to foster regional economic growth by leveraging local assets and identifying strategic opportunities. This process, rooted in the US Economic Development Administration’s (EDA)...
New Opportunities: Navigate the Rescheduling of Cannabis
President Biden has recently directed the DEA to reschedule cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III. This historic change is set to invigorate the industry by easing banking restrictions and opening new avenues for investment. Understanding the Rescheduling For over...
Could Your Tribe Benefit from a ISDEAA Section 105(l) Lease?
Since 1975 Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations have faced challenges in arranging for suitable facilities and equipment to operate programs contracted under the Indian Self-Determination Act, PL 93-638. In response, the Indian Self-Determination Act was amended in...
3 Action Steps to Ensure Growth After ARPA
With the end of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding in sight and potential political shifts coming in the 2024 elections, it is a critical time for Tribal Nations to consider reassessing the development of their economic systems. These are important questions...
Grants 101: Assessing & Winning Funding
With Federal Funding being released over the next 5 years (2022-2027) through federal and state grants, now is the time for Tribal leaders and staff to have a strong understanding of the grant system, how to assess grants, and how to write grants.
Analyzing the Infrastructure Act: What Tribal Leaders Should be Thinking About
The 2021 Infrastructure Investments & Jobs Act is a tremendous opportunity for Tribal Nations to address community needs and build Tribal economies for the next generations. In this article, I want to focus on not just the dollars involved but how Tribal Leaders should be thinking about this funding and the best approach to utilizing it. Here are my key takeaways as we consider the Infrastructure Act
Building Stronger Tribal Economies Part IV: Resiliency in the 21st Century
Continue the Series "Building Stronger Tribal Economies" This series on building stronger Tribal economies concludes with the concept of resiliency, a word of great significance to past and future generations, and one which, in many ways, defines our relationship with...
Building Stronger Tribal Economies Part I: Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
Explore the Series "Building Stronger Tribal Economies" The strength of a Tribe’s economy is intimately related to the well-being of its members, growth of their community, and expression of their sovereignty. A perpetually evolving and always important discussion,...
Rethinking Broadband Opportunities in Indian Country
Introduction With the unprecedented focus on the usage of internet services during the COVID-19 pandemic, broadband access has become even more of an important consideration for Tribal communities. Internet access has become a necessity, and investing in broadband...