Native American food producers and entrepreneurs have long played a vital role in regional agriculture and land stewardship. Led by Landon Charlo, WSU Assistant Professor in Native American Food Systems with support from WSDA Specialty Crop Block Grant, this new Native American Entrepreneurship Training and Certification Program will launch in 2028, rooted in Washington and co-designed by WSU Extension and Tribal partners.
This comprehensive, multi-session program will provide specialized instruction in sustainable specialty crop production, value-added business development, regulatory literacy, market access strategies, and advertising and brand development. This program will build upon Cultivating Success while centering Indigenous values, ancestral knowledge, and culturally relevant approaches to localized agriculture, community wellness and economic resilience.
The program will be offered at no cost to Tribal members and descendants and will include hybrid options (in-person and asynchronous on-line) to increase accessibility across rural and reservation-based communities. The training program will incorporate guest speakers from Native-led food and farm businesses, peer-to-peer learning opportunities and optional technical assistance for participants ready to launch or expand their enterprise.
Expected course launch: 2028