November is National Native American Heritage Month and Circuit Media is happy to be celebrating it. This time is significant to Circuit Media because we are an Indian Small Business Economic Enterprise (ISBEE).
We are proud to be an ISBEE as we can represent this special group. To qualify you must be recognized as a small business under the Small Business Administration (SBA), the enterprise must be at least 51% owned by one or more individuals who are members of a federally recognized Indian tribe and they must manage and control the daily business operations. Any type of business can qualify to become an ISBEE if it meets the requirements.
We are not the only ISBEE as Colorado is home to several federally recognized tribes and a diverse range of Native American-owned businesses. These enterprises operate in various industries, including construction, consulting, environmental services, and technology. Because there are multiple ISBEEs, Circuit Media must remain competitive in terms of pricing, quality, and delivery to earn the set-aside contracts offered to companies that are ISBEE. That is not the only challenge Circuit Media faces, we must ensure the federal procurement officers are aware of and advocate for the Buy Indian Act provisions, which can be challenging.
Although there are challenges to being an ISBEE, these certifications are important for various reasons. To start, it promotes economic growth and self-sufficiency within Native American communities by providing business opportunities. It encourages the employment of Native Americans, contributing to reduced unemployment rates in these communities. It addresses historical disparities by ensuring that Native American-owned businesses have fair access to federal contracting opportunities. Lastly, supporting Native American businesses helps preserve cultural heritage and traditional knowledge.
Rebecca Askew, Circuit Media’s CEO, says being an ISBEE is important because “it signifies that Circuit Media is recognized as a Native American-owned small enterprise eligible for certain federal contracting preference. This status can enhance our visibility and competitiveness in the federal contractive marketplace”.
Circuit Media is not only proud to celebrate Native American Heritage Month, but we are also proud to celebrate our ability to be an ISBEE and everything it stands for. Being able to create a safe space for Native Americans to work and be represented is special for Circuit Media.
