The Montana Indian Equity Fund launched its third year of operations recently. The Fund helps finance small businesses in Indian Country, with up to two enrolled members from each Montana tribe eligible to receive up to $7,000 from the fund.

That money can then be used to either start a new business or expand an existing one.   

Philip Belangie, manager of the MT Department of Commerce Entrepreneur Development program, said, "One of the things that makes a great community is the diversity of businesses. If you have a lot of businesses in your community, that's part of having a great community. So, our goal is to develop business in Indian Country and really develop the communities." 

When it started, the project funded ten businesses, but that number has since grown to 17 businesses.

People who have received grants from the program have used the money to expand a beauty salon, purchase buildings for health care clients and a home renovation center, purchase materials and equipment for Indian artists, and started a silk-screening business.

For more information on the grants, call (406)-721-3663; the application deadline is December 1st.

- posted by KRTV.com producer David Sherman