U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach recently traveled to the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in Browning, Montana, for his first trip to Montana since taking office — part of a broader swing through Indian Country that also included visits to the Flathead and Coeur d’Alene reservations.

In Episode 6 of Difference Makers 3.0, Brian Edwards and Native CDFI Network CEO Pete Upton sit down with Beach after a day of touring Native-owned businesses, meeting with tribal leaders and Native lenders, and attending a regional gathering hosted by Native CDFI Network and NACDC Financial Services.

The conversation explores infrastructure, banking access, broadband connectivity, private investment, federal contracting and the barriers tribes still face attracting outside capital.

Beach also discusses why he believes tribes possess major economic advantages many policymakers still underestimate — including sovereignty, entrepreneurial energy and cultural ties that encourage younger citizens to return home.

Along the way, the episode touches on Native CDFIs, financial literacy, diversification beyond gaming and the challenge of building long-term economic growth in rural reservation communities.

Show Notes:

Native CDFI Network
https://nativecdfi.net/

NACDC Financial Services
https://nacdcfinancialservices.com/

Tribal Business News
https://tribalbusinessnews.com/

U.S. Treasury Office of Tribal and Native Affairs
https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/tribal-affairs

Difference Makers explores how Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) are expanding economic opportunity across Indian Country. From small business lending and homeownership to consumer loans, financial education, and technical assistance, Native CDFIs provide the capital and support that help Native communities build stronger local economies.

Join the Native CDFI Network and Tribal Business News as they spotlight the people, partnerships, and ideas driving economic change in Native communities.