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RES Las Vegas 2014 Agenda
DATE/TIME
ACTIVITY
LOCATION
Sunday, March 16th
2:00pm - 7:00 pm
On Site Registration Opens
Tradewinds E & F
Monday, 17th
7:00 am & 7:30 am
Shuttle Departures to Golf Course
Mandalay Bay Tour & Travel Lobby
8:15am
Breakfast at Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort (Participants Only)
7:00 am – 7:00 pm
On Site Registration Opens
Tradewinds E & F
8:00 am – 9:00 am
Procurement Expo Orientation Getting Ready for Procurement at National RES Las Vegas 2014. Powered by NCAIED PTAC.
Presenter: George Williams – Program Manager, National Center Procurement Technical Assistance Center
Tradewinds D
9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Procurement Expo
Tradewinds D
9:00 am – 3:00 pm
28th Annual NCAIED Scholarship Golf Classic at the Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort.
Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
American Indian Art Market
Conference Promenade & Bay View North Court
9:00 am – 5:30 pm
National Center Energy Forum
9:00am - 9:15am: Energy Forum Welcome & Opening Remarks
Susan Masten - Vice Chairperson, Yurok Tribe, Vice Chairwoman, Board of Directors, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development and Member, DOE Indian Country Energy & Infrastructure Working Group
Tracey A. LeBeau - Director, United States Department of Energy, Office of Indian Energy Policy & Programs
9:15am – 10:45am : Roundtable Session One
Tribes, Energy Infrastructure and Utility Services: Strategies to Meet Current and Future Reservation Needs and Priorities. This panel will discuss proven strategies that Tribes and their businesses are employing, or have employed, to navigate establishing their own utility businesses as well as the complex relationships with local incumbent utilities.
LOCATION: CORAL AB
Moderator: : Lamont Jackson – U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability
Participants:
Richard Tall Bear - President & CEO, The Tall Bear Group and Member Board of Directors, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development
John Lewis – VP Tribal Client Development, Avant Energy
Brian McDonald - Tribal Liaison, Southern California Edison
Craig Oberg – Avant Energy
10:45am – 12:15pm : Energy Forum – Roundtable Session Two
Highlights of Emerging Success Stories in Indian Clean Energy.
TPromoting energy security and resilient infrastructure on Indian lands is a growing priority for many tribal communities – including serving tribal loads to reduce costs and emissions as well as establishing revenue streams to support more infrastructure development. The focus of this interactive roundtable discussion will be on recent best practices as well as projects sponsored by Tribes and projects where tribal investment entities have participated in non-tribal energy projects.
LOCATION: CORAL AB
Moderator: Pilar Thomas – Deputy Director, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Indian Energy
Participants:
Jennifer Carleton – General Counsel, Moapa Band of Paiute (Moapa Solar Project)
Representative – National Renewable Energy Laboratory (DOE START Projects)
Ken Duncan Jr. - Project Manager, SCATUI Energy, San Carlos Apache Tribe
2:00pm – 3:30pm : Energy Forum – Roundtable Session Three
Game Changers: Energy Investment Strategies, Regulatory Incentives and Obstacles and Next Generation Emerging Energy Opportunities for Tribes.This roundtable will cover new regulatory tools like new leasing regulations as well as other regulatory incentives and challenges like federal procurement rules which seek to promote clean energy development. The discussion will also include new approaches to next generation energy generation investment and development opportunities on tribal lands.
LOCATION: CORAL AB
Moderator: John Lewis – VP Tribal Client Development, Avant Energy
Panelists:
a. Pilar Thomas – Deputy Director, U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs
b. Matt Ferguson – Esq., Project SeaStar
c. Ken Bellmard – Attorney, Kaw Tribe of Oklahoma
3:30pm – 3:45pm: Energy Forum – Energy Forum – Report Out on Western Transmission Planning
Panelist: Chris Clark Deschene - Esq. will discuss and seek input on Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC) 10- and 20-Year Plans for the Western Transmission Expansion Planning Project
4:00pm – 5:30pm: Energy Forum – Roundtable Session Four
Indian Country & Energy: Now and Looking to the Future. This roundtable discussion will focus on the current state of Indian Country’s energy opportunity in terms of both resource development and project development. This discussion will also focus on workforce creation and infrastructure development in the energy sector.
LOCATION: CORAL AB
Moderator: Michelle Holiday – President, Michelle Holiday and Associates and Member Board of Directors, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development
Participants:
Jenifer Lee – Managing Director, Edison Mission Energy
Jody TallBear-Cabrera – Strategic Initiatives and Policy Advisor (Acting), Office of Economic Impact and Diversity, U.S. Department of Energy
1015 am – 10:45 am
National RES Networking Break - Full Conference Attendees
Food & Beverage Promenade
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Breakout Session ONE
-Track 1: TOURISM – A panel exploring the vast economic development successes and potential of Tribal Nations and Alaska Native Corporations throughout the United States and First Nations in Canada.
LOCATION: Tradewinds C
Moderator: Ron Solimon – Director, Center for Lifelong Education and Member Board of Directors, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development
Panelists:
Bill Wemberley – Executive Director and Chief Business & Economic Development Officer, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
Camille Ferguson – Executive Director, American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA)
Martin L. Begaye – Department Manager, Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation
Susan Guyette, Ph.D
-Track 2: INVESTMENT – Investors Perspectives and Insights. Various Funding partners will share strategy and reflections for economic development in Indian Country.
LOCATION: Tradewinds B
Panelists:
Carly Hare – Executive Director, Native Americans in Philanthropy
Lillian Sparks - Commissioner, Administration for Native Americans - Invited
Kevin Walker - President and CEO, Northwest Area Foundation - Invited
John Echohawk - Executive Director, Native Americans Rights Fund and Member Board of Directors, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development
-Track 3: HUMAN RESOURCES – (Re)Introducing You to Unions: How Today’s National Labor Relations Board and The Labor Movement of 2014 Is Impacting All Workplaces. Common assumption: “Our business is a wholly-owned Tribal enterprise and we operate exclusively on Tribal land, so we don’t have to worry about the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), or organizing efforts by today’s labor movement, right?” Wrong! Another common assumption: “My workplace is union-free, so I don’t have to worry about the NLRB, the NLRA, or organizing efforts by today’s labor movement, right?” Wrong! During this engaging and entertaining presentation, we will explore the problems associated with these common assumptions. Specifically, we will address how the NLRB and federal courts have extended their jurisdiction when it comes to application of the NLRA to Tribes. In addition, we will address the changing composition of the NLRB and how these changes will affect virtually all employers. We will also cover recently issued NLRB decisions and guidance on the hot-topics of “employee rights” posting requirements, social media polices/enforcement, and arbitration language. We will also cover the changing rules for union elections and, more importantly, how these changes, in concert with the strategies of today’s labor movement, will impact your workplace. Throughout, participants will receive practical take-away action items that they can implement today in order to minimize exposure tomorrow.
LOCATION: Tradewinds A
Presenter: Geoff Hash - Attorney, Rosette Law
-Track 4: FINANCE: BITCOIN – Bitcoin 101: What Your Tribal Enterprise Needs to Know. Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency that facilitates instant peer-to-peer transactions anywhere in the world. Bitcoin also eliminates the need to involve third party processors in e-commerce; and third party transaction fees. Everyday more commercial enterprises of all sizes are incorporating Bitcoin into their e-commerce strategy. However, the use and implementation of Bitcoin is rapidly developing and there are still many gray areas. Businesses should first understand Bitcoin before incorporating it into their commercial enterprise.
LOCATION: Tropics A
Presenter: Blake Trueblood – Attorney at Law and Partner, Mearkle, Trueblood and Adam PLLC
-Track 5: AFFORDABLE CARE ACT (ACA): ACA Employer Opportunities & Requirements Overview. Tribal governments and enterprises have opportunities and requirements similar to other small and large employers. This section will provide an overview of the employer provisions in the ACA, including those provisions applicable to Tribes and other Tribal entities as employers.
LOCATION: Tropics B
Presenters:
Laura Bird – Legislative Associate (Health Policy), National Congress of American Indians (NCAI)
Stacey Ecoffey – Principal Advisor for Tribal Affairs, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Business To Business Collaboration Luncheon - Open To All Full Conference Attendees
Islander Ballroom
1:45 pm – 3:15 pm
Breakout Session TWO
-Track 1: BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT - Business Accounting 101 – You are a Native American entrepreneur. You are an expert in your field. You can solve problems and provide products with the best in your industry. But what about accounting for your venture? This course gives you, the entrepreneur, an inside look at the fundamentals of accounting, financial statements, key business ratios, common mistakes made in accounting and just what you can write off on that tax return. Be prepared to learn a little (or a lot) about the lifeline of your business…the numbers. Outline: Accounting – The Fundamentals (25 minutes)
Cash receipts
Cash disbursements
General ledger
Trial balance
Accounting software
Financial Statements – The Basics (25 minutes)
The Balance Sheet
The Income Statement
The Cash Flow Statement
Key business ratios
Internal Controls & Fraud “What To Know” (25 minutes)
Key internal controls
Risk
Cost/benefit
Fraud
Q&A (15 Minutes)
LOCATION: Tradewinds B
Presenter: Sean McCabe - Managing Shareholder, Anuskewicz & McCabe CPA’s, PC
-Track 2: GLOBAL ENTERPRISE: NCAIED’s “Native American Global Trade Center” – Unifying Indian Country to Engage in Economic Development Opportunities Globally. When we seek to “grow our business,” why not seek to “grow our business internationally”? NCAIED leads the way in advancing global opportunities for Indian Country through its Native American Global Trade Center (NAGTC). Learn how Tribes and Tribal enterprises can work together to attract both domestic and foreign investment and advance their global trade activities both at home and abroad.
LOCATION: Tradewinds C
Moderator: Robert Shade – Director, NCAIED’s Native American Global Trade Center
Panelists:
Alan Parker – Attorney at Law and Governing Board Secretary, United League of Indigenous Nations
Elmer Eashappie – Member, Board of Directors, Canadian Western Agribition
-Track 3: Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI’s) – Increasing Native Economic Development Through Community Partners. This session will explore economic development through resource strategy involving Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) vehicles and programs.
LOCATION: Tropics A
Moderator Pat Parker - CEO, Native American Management Services and Member, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development Board of Directors
Panelists:
Karlene Hunter – President & CEO, Native American Natural Foods and Member, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development Board of Directors
Tanya Fiddler - Executive Director, Four Bands Community Fund and Co-Chair, Native CDFI Network
Michael Bland - CDE Manager - Travois
-Track 4: NATIVE AMERICAN 40 Under 40 – Fast Tracking the Future of Indian Country! An invigorating round table discussion comprised of members of the NCAIED’s “Native American 40 under 40”, who are some of the finest young and up coming Native American Tribal Leaders, Business Executives and Entrepreneurs in Indian Country. Make sure you don’t miss this invigorating panel discussion with the next generation of Native American leaders.
LOCATION: Tropics B
Moderator: Derrick Watchman – CEO, Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprises and Chairman, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development Board of Directors
Panelists (Native American 40 under 40 Recipients):
Dennis Worden – Legislative Director, Native American Contractors Association
Richard Tall Bear – Richard Tall Bear - President & CEO, The Tall Bear Group and Member Board of Directors, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development
Blake Trueblood – Attorney at Law and Partner, Mearkle, Trueblood and Adam PLLC
Chance Alberta – Chairman, Chukchansi, Inc.
-Track 5: TECHNOLOGY – Technology Solutions for Tribal Enterprise Development; Beyond the Casino…” As your organization extends its for-profit enterprises and operations, what technology do you have in place to help manage your efforts? In this session, you will learn how low –cost, scalable software and hardware tools can help you succeed with the following challenges:
Software as a Service (SaaS) options for email, document management, and business relationship management
Mobile hardware solutions (Tablets, Phones, Laptops, Virtual Desk Tops) for a distributed work force that are secure, dependable, and easy to use
Strategic Planning Portals, Issue Management, Project Collaboration
Business Development Pipeline Management for all verticals, including Federal Contract Administration
Multiple Business lines and Portfolio Management across the Tribal Enterprise
LOCATION: Tradewinds A
Presenters:
David Bailey – Vice President, Doyon Government Group/ Arctic Information Technology, Inc.
Don Lionetti – Account Manager, Tribal Government/Gaming, Microsoft
3:30 pm – 3:45 pm
National RES Networking Break - Full Conference Attendees
Food & Beverage Promenade
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Breakout Session THREE
-Track 1: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: INVESTMENT -Utilizing EB-5 international Equity Partners for Financing Tribal Projects. The EB-5 visa for Immigrant Investors program is a United States visa program created by the Immigration Act of 1990. This visa program provides a method of obtaining a green card for foreign nationals who invest money in the United States. Currently many large-scale projects, including hotels, and casinos, are being funded by pooling Chinese EB-5 capital. We will discuss how to successfully tap this funding source and create long-term international equity partnerships.
Tradewinds A
Moderator: Erik Coffin - CEO/Founder, Cahokia Corporate Group, Inc., Cahokia Capital Group, LLC, Running Brave Properties, LLC, Running Brave Construction and Gotham Corporate Group, Inc.
Panelists:
Kevin Jeffers - Founder, Pinnint/Immco, EB5 marketing specialists in China, India, Korea and Hong Kong
-Track 2: TELECOMMUNICATIONS: TELECOM FOR TRIBES - The Tribal Government Engagement Obligation – What To Expect When Meeting with Telecom Carriers. This session is aimed at tribal leaders, administrators and professionals who do not have significant experience with the telecommunications industry. This introductory session provides an overview of telecommunications regulation; an explanation of how communications infrastructure in the United States is developed and the various platforms for delivering communications services; and how carriers are now required to engage the Tribal communities they serve. Recently-enacted rules from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) require telecommunications companies that receive Federal subsidies and serve Tribal Lands to meaningfully engage with the Tribes that they serve – called the “Tribal Government Engagement Obligation.” The rules provide a structure and the FCC provided further guidance on how these companies should engage with Tribal governments. This panel discussion will provide a specific overview of this obligation, detail issues on which telecommunications companies should be engaging with Tribes, and provide an opportunity for information sharing among the panel workshop attendees on how to make Tribal Government Engagement meetings productive and fruitful.
LOCATION: Tradewinds C
Moderator: Derek White – General Manager, Gila River Telecommunications Inc.
Panelists:
Geoffrey C. Blackwell - Chief, Office of Native Affairs & Policy, Federal Communications Commission
Bruce Holdridge, Subsidiary Manager, Alluvion Communications
Dan Kennedy - TSI Technology Solutions ( Miami Nations Enterprises )
-Track 3: BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Federal Procurement – DOD Programs and Initiatives. The session will be tailored to provide an overview for small businesses wanting to gain procurement opportunities within the Department of Defense. Topics that will be discussed are:
Native American and American Indian Small Businesses and the Navy
Indian Incentive Program
Mentor-Protege Program
Small Business Innovative Research Program (SBIR)
Subcontracting
LOCATION: Tropics B
Presenters:
Bradley D. Taylor – Asst. Director, Office of the Secretary of Navy Small Business Programs
Shawn R. Smith - Staff Analyst, Office of the Secretary of Navy Small Business Programs
-Track 4: BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT– Why invest in the Great Plains Tribes/Region... What are the Opportunities? For decades the Great Plains Tribes and Tribal Members have experienced economic challenges, but now with energy development at the forefront, Tribes are poised to take advantage of those opportunities...but how? This Session will identify the opportunities of job markets, workforce development, community development and private native owned businesses through the Great Plains Regional Indian Business Alliances. This session will also discuss the successes in working with State government regarding funding, legislative bills and policy as it relates to tribal economies and jobs
LOCATION: Tropics A
Moderator: Scott J. Davis – Commissioner, State of North Dakota Indian Affairs
Panelists:
Al Nygard – President and CEO, ANC Consulting
Mike Mabin – Owner and President, Marketing, Advertising, Business Unlimited, Inc.
-Track 5: INSURANCE - Tribal Insurance Considerations. Many tribes are finding the a large part of their overhead operating expense is insurance; find ways to lower your cost and leverage your money from companies that work directly in Indian Country. Find out how you can utilize an alternative to traditional insurance to save you money. Determining the coverage that leverages your hard earned tribal dollars.
LOCATION: Tradewinds B
Panelists:
Derek Valdo – CEO, AMERIND Risk Management Corporation
Todd Albright – National Director, Arthur J. Gallagher & Company
Sara Frier – ARM Sales Executive, Wells Fargo Bank
John Kovacik – Account Executive, Louvitt Touche’
6:30pm – 8:30pm
Grand Opening Welcome Reception Dinner with musical guest Gabriel Ayala - Open To All Full Conference Attendees
Islander Ballroom
Tuesday, March 18th
7:00 am – 5:00 pm
Registration
Tradewinds E & F
7:30 am – 8:45 am
RES Networking Breakfast= Open To All Full Conference Attendees
Islander Ballroom
8:00am - 9:00am
Twenty Grand Business Plan – Qualifying Round
Coral AB
9:00 am – 10:15 am
Opening General Session
Posting of Colors – Native American Female Color Guard
Opening Prayer – Benny Tso, Chairman, Las Vegas Paiute Tribe
Opening Welcome Presentation
Welcome, Gary Davis - President/CEO, NCAIED
Welcome, Derrick Watchman - Chairman, NCAIED
Welcome, Raina Thiele - The White House, Office of Public Engagement
Award Presentation:
CONGRESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Congressional Lifetime Achievement Award
Featured Keynote Speaker: Victoria Labalme is an internationally renowned creative communications strategist for elite “Fortune 100” executives and high performing teams. Mrs. Labalme returns to National RES Las Vegas 2014 by popular demand.
Procession to the National RES Las Vegas 2014 Business Tradeshow and Business Matchmaking Expo.
Islander Ballroom
10:30am - 5:00pm
American Indian Art Market
Conference Promenade & Bay View North Court
10:15 am – 10:30 am
Business Tradeshow and Business Matchmaking Expo - Ribbon Cutting
South Pacific Ballroom Foyer
10:30 am – 6:00 pm
Business Tradeshow and Business Matchmaking Expo Opens
South Pacific Ballroom
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Tribal Enterprise Luncheon - Open To All Full Conference Attendees
Lunch is served
Award Presentations:
AMERICAN INDIAN LEADERSHIP AWARD
NATIVE WOMAN BUSINESS OWNER OF THE YEAR AWARD
TIM WAPATO PUBLIC ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR AWARD
Special Presentation:
Derek Valdo – CEO, AMERIND Risk Management Corporation
Gary King - Attorney General, State of New Mexico
Keynote: Kevin Allis - Executive Director, Native American Contractors Association
Final Remarks
Islander Ballroom
1:15 pm – 2:30 pm
Tribal Business Leaders Forum at National RES powered by NOVA Corporation. Join this dynamic collaboration between executives of Tribal Enterprises, Alaska Native Corporations and members of the United States Congress. Tribal Business Leaders will communicate their experiences regarding Indian Country’s economic development accomplishments, obstacles and aspirations with each other and with Congressional leaders, in order to build Tribal economic alliances and broaden the scope of domestic and global economic opportunity for Indian Country.
LOCATION: Mariners AB
Moderator: Gary Davis – President and CEO, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development
Panelists:
Derrick Watchman – CEO, Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprises and Chairman, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development Board of Directors
Tony Sanchez Jr. – President, Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc.
John Snider – CEO, NOVA Corporation
U.S. Representative Bennie G. Thompson – Congressman (D-MS 2nd District)
U.S. Representative Don Young – Congressman (R-AK)
Gary King – Attorney General, State of New Mexico
Derek Valdo – CEO, AMERIND Risk Management Corporation
Bill Wimberley – Executive Director and Chief Business & Economic Development Officer, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
1:30pm - 2:30pm
Twenty Grand Business Plan – Semi-Final Round
Coral AB
3:00pm - 4:15pm
Twenty Grand Business Plan – Final Round
Coral AB
3:00pm - 4:00pm
FCC TELECOMMUNICATIONS SESSION AT NATIONAL RES - Tribal Radio, A Foundation Technology That Can Help Drive Tribal Development to New Heights - FCC Streamlines Tribal Radio Licensing. Radio is a tried and true medium. Affordable and effective, its reach spans everywhere you and your fellow Tribal members are: car, home, workplace and places in between. Radio can be your foundation for economic and community development, improved public safety, and effective cultural and preservation efforts. Advertising can bring revenue. Commercial and community radio opportunities abound as the Federal Communications Commission has introduced new radio licensing rules that provide Tribes and Tribally-owned entities with a direct, expedited, and least costly path toward acquiring construction permits for even full-power commercial radio station licenses. Drop by this session to learn how radio can be a key to future progress.
LOCATION: Tradewinds AB
Presenter: Geoffrey C. Blackwell - Chief, Office of Native Affairs & Policy, Federal Communications Commission.
Tradewinds AB
4:00 pm – 4:15 pm
National RES Networking Break - Full Conference Attendees
Food & Beverage Promenade
4:30 pm – 5:45 pm
Breakout Session FOUR
-Track 1: ENERGY “OIL & GAS” - Business and Workforce Development Opportunities in Upstream Oil and Natural Gas Sector. This panel will provide an overview of the exploding oil and gas industry and the resulting job and business opportunities; panelists will explain the training and preparation needed to take advantage of these opportunities; an overview of oil and gas development in Indian Country will be provided.
Moderator: Michael Trevino – Principal, Trevino and Associates
Panelists:
Scott J. Davis – Commissioner, State of North Dakota Indian Affairs
Deryck Spooner - Senior Director, External Mobilization, American Petroleum Institute
John Felmy - Senior Economist, American Petroleum Institute
LOCATION: Mariners A
-Track 2: REAL ESTATE – This Session Targets Sustainable Real Estate Investment Opportunities to Last for Future Generations. Tribes are continuously seeking ways to diversify their portfolios, hedging investments against possible future tribal economic downturns. Unlike starting or managing a business, which can involve intricate plans, human capital, complex infrastructure, and long term sustainability, a variety of real estate products provide continuous cash flow, are easily manageable, and appreciate in value over time. We will discuss how to successfully vet deals, build and manage Real Estate portfolios, specifically honing in on low risk investments with 100% tribal control and ownership, incurring immediate returns, leverage, and long term high yield appreciation.
Moderator: Erik Coffin - CEO/Founder, Cahokia Corporate Group, Inc., Cahokia Capital Group, LLC, Running Brave Properties, LLC, Running Brave Construction and Gotham Corporate Group, Inc.
Panelists:
Bradley Djukich - COO, Cahokia Corporate Group, Inc., COO, Gotham Corporate Group, Inc.
Patrick Vaughn - Innovative Housing Partners
Richard Grijalva – CEO, Economic Development Authority of the Tohono O’odham Tribe
LOCATION: Mariners B
-Track 3: TELECOMMUNICATIONS: FCC – Federal Funding Opportunities for Broadband and Telecommunications – Support for Connectivity, Education, Health Care, and More. Broadband and telecommunications services are a prerequisite for Tribal Nations and Native enterprises seeking to build and grow their presence. Too many regions of Indian Country lack robust access to broadband and related services, often because traditional carriers cannot make a sustainable business case for build out. The FCC regulates access to billions of dollars in Federal funding for subsides to communications providers – including a growing number of Tribally-owned providers – to help build and maintain networks. In an age when a broadband pipe is not just a pipe, but is a call center full of jobs or a network means for Tribal schools to get the best education for their children from worldwide sources. A combination of Tribal enterprise investment, industry involvement, plus Federal support for Tribal communications enterprises can be the answer to long-standing connectivity needs in Indian Country. Drop by this session to learn more and dialogue on strategic solutions.
LOCATION: Tropics AB
Presenter:Geoffrey C. Blackwell - Chief, Office of Native Affairs & Policy, Federal Communications Commission.
-Track 4: HUMAN RESOURCES: Understanding Labor Law. This training session will focus on debunking common myths about labor unions in Indian Country. We will summarize the applicable law, address how it applies to essentially all workplaces (union, non-union, on reservation and off-reservation) in light of recent legal developments, and summarize recent enforcement activities by the NLRB in Indian Country. We will also provide participants with plenty of opportunity for questions and answers. We promise, there will be very little “legalese” and lots of practical take-away points and action items that participants can implement today in order to minimize exposure tomorrow.
LOCATION: Coral AB
Presenter: Geoff Hash – Attorney, Rosette Law
-Track 5: FINANCE: BITCOIN – Implementation of Bitcoin into Tribal Enterprise: Strategies and Best Practices. The use and implementation of Bitcoin in commercial enterprise is still in its infancy. While the benefits of implementing Bicoin into Tribal enterprise might be apparent, businesses must be well aware and prepared for the risks that come along with it. Tribal Enterprises should develop a implementation strategy to capture Bitcon's value; and establish best practices for safely utilizing this new payment source.
LOCATION: Tradewinds D
Presenter: Blake Trueblood – Attorney at Law and Partner, Mearkle, Trueblood and Adam, PLLC
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Tribal Business Leaders Forum Networking Reception - Invitation Only
Tradewinds D
6:00 pm
Business Tradeshow and Business Matchmaking Expo– Closes for Day
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
NCAIED “RES Las Vegas Cirque” VIP Networking Reception - Open To All Full Conference Attendees
Islander Ballroom
Wednesday, March 19th
7:00 am – 5:00 pm
Registration
Tradewinds E & F
7:30 am – 8:45 am
RES Networking Breakfast - Open To All Full Conference Attendees
Islander Ballroom
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
American Indian Art Market
Conference Promenade & Bay View North Court
9:00 am – 10:30 am
Breakout Session FIVE
-Track 1: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma’s “PROMISE ZONE”. President Barack Obama announced the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma as one of five locations designated by his administration for its “Promise Zone” initiative, a new anti-poverty program meant to provide resources such as grants and tax incentives to help improve conditions in persistently high poverty communities.
The President first announced the Promise Zone Initiative during last year’s State of the Union Address, as a way to partner with local communities and businesses to create jobs, increase economic security, expand access to educational opportunities and quality, affordable housing and improve public safety. This announcement will be a critical step forward in delivering on this commitment, according to a White House release.
The Promise Zone region is an important initiative; it identifies census tracts that experience high poverty and other challenging demographics. These areas are in several southeastern Oklahoma counties, including Atoka, Bryan, Coal, Choctaw, Haskell, Latimer, LeFlore, McCurtain, Pittsburg, and Pushmataha. Of the census tracts involved, nine have poverty rates over 30 percent, the highest of which is a staggering 52.8 percent.
The goals of this initiative include attracting private investment, improving affordable housing availability, improving educational opportunities, reducing serious and violent crimes, and assisting local and tribal leaders in navigating federal programs and cutting through red tape.
This designation provides benefits such as technical assistance, federal staff support, more extensive preference points and access to other federal grants programs, and may also provide the Promise Zones tax credit where private businesses would receive tax incentives for hiring and investing in Promise Zones, to create jobs and attract additional private investments.
Join this session to learn more about the various opportunities surrounding the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma’s “Promise Zone”.
LOCATION: Mariners A
Moderator: Bill Wemberley – Executive Director and Chief Business & Economic Development Officer, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
Panelists:
Raina Thiele - The White House, Office of Public Engagement –Invited
b. Panelist TBD - Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
-Track 2: BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT – Winning in the World of Procurement Through Teaming, Joint Ventures, and Mentor Protégé Arrangements.
LOCATION: Mariners B
Moderator: George Williams – Program Manager, National Center American Indian Procurement Technical Assistance Center
Panelists:
Roxie Schescke – President, Indian Eyes, LLC
Ms. Kenyatta Lewis, Executive Director of Supplier Diversity at MGM Resorts International
Amber D. Simpson - Vice President & Manager, National Multicultural Markets and Community Affairs, U.S. Bank
-Track 3: FINANCE – New and Innovative Solutions for Growing Tribal Economies: Sovereign Nations and E-Commerce Business and Employment Opportunities in the Financial Services Industry. Tribal lending companies can provide positive economic development impact, and benefit their communities through social giving, education, employment and increased opportunity, both on and off reservation lands. Learn how to develop and provide financial products and services, which responsibly meet consumer need with transparency, value and convenience.
LOCATION: Tropics A & B
Moderator: Barry Brandon – Executive Director, Native American Financial Services Association (NAFSA)
Panelists:
John R. Shotton – Chairman, Otoe-Missouria Tribe of Indians - Invited
Sherry Treppa – Chairperson, Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake - Invited
Rob Rosette – Partner, Rosette, LLP
-Track 4: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – Economic Development Opportunities within the Administration for Native Americans. The Administration for Native Americans (ANA) has provided funding for social and economic development strategies (SEDS) for nearly 40 years. Currently there are three funding opportunities within SEDS that Tribes, Tribal entities, and native non-profits including community development entities can apply for to meet on or off-reservation economic development goals. Recent projects funded include: sustainable food and value added agriculture; professional development and skill training for green trades; marketing and expansion of existing tribal enterprises; and business incubators to assist small business development. Presenters will share specifics about the various funding opportunities including how to access technical assistance during the application process and resources available to current and potential applicants. (Note: ANA funding is not available to privately owned businesses).
LOCATION: Coral AB
Moderator: Lillian Sparks - Commissioner, Administration for Native Americans
Panelist:
Michelle Sauve – Senior Project Consultant, Tribal Tech, LLC
Rondelle Clay – Regional Director, Administration for Native Americans Eastern Region Training and Technical Assistance Center
-Track 5: TRIBAL ENTERPRISE – Carbon Credits: Accessing the Carbon Trading Market.
The Yurok Tribe recently entered the carbon trading market in California with a Forest Protocol project; registering 7,660 acres of forestland with the help of an investment group. The Tribe will be issued 704,520 offset credits that can be sold and traded on the open market. There is a significant opportunity for Tribal forest owners to participate in the carbon market and create additional asset value. Carbon Offset Credits create the opportunity for an annual revenue stream for the Tribe. And, importantly, some of the Forest Protocol projects are not incompatible with ongoing timber management objectives, but may, in fact, help generate revenues that can assist in overall forest health and timber management objectives such as through thinning projects and/or biomass removal. The Carbon Offset Credit revenues could also be rolled into other management objectives, for example, forestland acquisition.
LOCATION Tradewinds AB
Presenters:
Susan Masten - Vice-Chairwoman, Yurok Tribe and Vice-Chair, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development Board of Directors
Nathan Voegeli - Staff Attorney, Yurok Tribe
10:30 am – 10:45 am
National RES Networking Break - Full Conference Attendees
Food & Beverage Promenade
10:30 am – 4:00 pm
Business Tradeshow and Business Matchmaking Expo - Day 2
South Pacific Ballroom
12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
National Center Corporate Diversity Luncheon - Open To All Full Conference Attendees.
Lunch is served
Award Presentations:
CORPORATE ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR
Special Presentation:
John Snider - President and CEO, NOVA Corporation and NCAIED National Resource Council Member
Chance Alberta - Chairman, Chukchansi, Inc.
Keynote: GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDIAN COUNTRY. Alan Parker – Attorney at Law and Governing Board Secretary, United League of Indigenous Nations
Final Remarks
Islander Ballroom
1:45 pm – 3:15 pm
Breakout Sessions SIX
-Track 1: RENEWABLE ENERGY – The Forest County Potawatomi Continues to Lead by Example in the Development of Clean, Renewable Energy. The tribe’s most recent and notable endeavor to achieve optimum sustainability is the recently completed biodigester and biogas facility adjacent to the Potawatomi Bingo Casino in Milwaukee’s thriving Menomonee Valley. The digester will recycle food waste into biogas, a renewable fuel. The energy produced by the digester will be sold back to Milwaukee-based Wisconsin Energy Corp. under a special tariff to offset the Potawatomi Community's energy costs throughout the state. The Potawatomi tribe has about 17,000 acres of land in northern Wisconsin and in Milwaukee.
The planning, implementation and operation of such a facility requires the expertise and commitment of a team of energy, construction, engineering and funding professionals. A select few of these professionals will discuss how their experience with the Forest County Potawatomi’s facility can serve as a case study and model for other tribes.
LOCATION: Tradewinds AB
Presenter: Kip Ritchie – Chief Operations Officer, Potawatomi Business Development Corporation and Member, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development Board of Directors
-Track 2: CORPORATE PROCUREMENT – Key Strategies for Engagement. A Business Development Workshop powered by MGM Resort International Supplier Diversity Team. The MGM Resorts International Supplier Diversity Team will host a dynamic workshop that will empower Native business owners with valuable tools to develop business relationships within the hospitality industry. Receive key strategies for engagement and business development from MGM Resort professionals in Global Procurement, Retail, and Construction. If you’re goal is to engage with MGM Resorts International — you don’t want to miss this workshop!
LOCATION: Tropics AB
Moderator: Ms. Kenyatta Lewis, Executive Director of Supplier Diversity at MGM Resorts International - Global Procurement
Panelists:
John Meisner - Executive Director Strategic Sourcing, MGM Resorts International
Joseph Federici - Vice President General Merchandise Manager – Retail Buying, MGM Resorts International
Jason Rosewell - Director of Pre Construction – Capital Improvements, MGM Resorts International
-Track 3: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – Doing Business with Indian Country: Gila River Indian Community's Development Model. Join us for a discussion on strategic partnerships and doing business in Indian Country; learn what the value is and what challenges you may face.
LOCATION: Coral AB
Panelists:
Stephen R. Lewis – Lieutenant Governor, Gila River Indian Community
Barney Enos, Jr. – Council Member (D-4) & Member of Economic Development Standing Committee, Gila River Indian Community
Christopher Mendoza – Chairman, Wild Horse Pass Development Authority Board of Directors, Gila River Indian Community
Dale Gutenson – Executive Director, Wild Horse Pass Development Authority
Alia Maisonet – Director of Marketing, Wild Horse Pass Development Authority
Track 4: HOSPITALITY - Hospitality Readiness: A focus on customer service for Tribal Enterprises. This workshop will present an overview of an available professional development program that contains fundamental concepts preparing Tribal members for work in the Hospitality and Casino industries. It will entail topics related to hospitality issues, operational strategy, relationship building, communication and a focus on guest service management.
LOCATION: Mariners A
Presenters:
Wyatt Hockmeyer, University of Phoenix, Workforce Solutions
Rick Waters, Apollo Education Group, Tribal Relations
Kenneth Manuel – Co-CEO, Gila River Casinos
Michael Olujic – General Manager, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino
-Track 5: BUSINESS PLAN DEVELOPMENT – Business Plan Improvements Workshop. This workshop will be filled with interactive feedback and discussion on how to improve your company’s business plan, financial analysis and presentation. Attend and receive years of knowledge and experience with building businesses, both individually and tribally operated.
LOCATION: Mariners B
Moderator: Pat Parker – CEO, Native American Management Services and Member, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development Board of Directors
Panelists:
Clyde Gooden – Vice President Business Development, NANA Development Corporation and Member, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development Board of Directors
Joan Timeche – Executive Director, Native Nations Institute at the University of Arizona and Secretary, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development Board of Directors
3:15 pm – 3:30 pm
National RES Networking Break - Full Conference Attendees
Food & Beverage Promenade
3:30pm - 3:45pm
Business Tradeshow and Business Matchmaking Expo - Grand Finale Giveaway
NCAIED Booth - South Pacific Ballroom
4:00pm
Business Tradeshow and Business Matchmaking Expo - Ends
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Breakout Sessions SEVEN
-Track 1: CORPORATE PROCUREMENT – How Tribes Can Effectively Work with AT&T and Other Corporations as Suppliers.
Go, Go, Grow - Smart Strategies for Diverse Businesses
Consumers and business are communicating in ways we never thought possible even a few years ago. Every month 450,000 people move to new technology: smartphones, tablets, voice-over-the-Internet communications and home phone options. How is this technology transformation impacting Tribal businesses?
Join AT&T and let us share with you strategies that can immediately help your business succeed in 2014. Our experts will provide you with information on how to become an AT&T Diverse Supplier, and give you extra insightful resources to help your business grow now – (increase bonding capacity, access to cash, minimize risk!)
Attendees of the AT&T session will automatically get an opportunity to enter our drawing for a SMARTPHONE at the end of the session – must be present to win.
LOCATION: Tradewinds AB
Panelists:
Dan Youmans, Regional Vice President, AT&T
Caren Bowman, Senior Supplier Diversity Manager, AT&T
Jennifer Choate, CEO, Choate & Associates
-Track 2: GAMING PROCUREMENT:“Native 2 Native” – Unrealized Economic Potential from Indian Gaming Enterprises for Indian Country’s Entrepreneurs. Indian Gaming is a $27 Billion a year industry. However, an infinitely small amount of that business is sourced to Native American owned and operated businesses. Why is that? What can Native business owners do to better position their companies to gain success in supplying their goods or services to Native American casino properties? This panel brings together respected leaders in Indian Gaming to discuss the obstacles, solutions and possibilities that exist for Native business owners within Indian Gaming enterprises.
LOCATION: Coral AB
Moderator: Derrick Watchman – CEO, Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprises and Chairman, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development Board of Directors
Panelists:
Ernie Stevens, Jr. – Chairman, National Indian Gaming Association and Member, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development Board of Directors
Kenneth Manuel – Co-CEO, Gila River Casinos
Michael Olujic – General Manager, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino
-Track 3: BUSINESS PLAN DEVELOPMENT – Powered by U.S. Bank. Roadmap for Success: How to Plan and Launch a Successful Business. Every business starts with a dream. To make that dream a reality requires careful planning, solid business acumen and a strong financial partner that can help you chart a path to success. During this workshop you will learn from a panel of experts some of the key elements needed to launch, grow and transition a successful business.
Getting Started –Business Banker
Goal Setting
Creating a Business Plan
Business Differentiation
Budgeting
Running Your Business—Treasury Management/CPS
Cash Flow Management
Accounting & Budgeting – Tips for Small Businesses
Quick Performance Metrics
Average Customer Value (ACV)
Cost per Acquisition (CPA)
Return on Investment (ROI)
Breakeven
Financing—Business Banker
Debt v. Equity
Equipment financing
Planning for future success
Choosing a Bank
Transitioning Your Business—Wealth Management
Planning for growth
Setting up to bid on federal contracts
Value of certification (M/WBE)
Succession Planning
Selling Your Business—tips for exiting successfully
10 Ways your Business Banker Can Help You Succeed— Small Business Banker
Q&A
LOCATION: Mariners A
Facilitator: Michael Pizzi, VP-Sales Manager, Business Banking, U.S. Bank
Panelists:
Diana Rich – VP Business Banking Manager U.S. Bank
Nancy Witt – SVP SBA Specialty Finance U.S. Bank
Brian Maddox – Director Nevada Operations Clearinghouse CDFI
LeAnn Jenkins – Nevada Microenterprise Initiative
-Track 4: ENERGY – Sovereign Power = Local Power Generation! With natural disasters, rising energy prices and outdated public infrastructure - generating power for your tribal community locally is the future of energy in the U.S. and the world. This panel will explore off-grid local power generation technologies and options for micro grids and tribal utilities to generate power locally.
LOCATION: Tropics AB
Moderator: Richard Tall Bear - President & CEO, The Tall Bear Group and Member, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development Board of Directors
Panelists:
Bill Bach – Business Development, Alternative Energy Solutions
Pilar Thomas - Deputy Director, U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs
John Lewis – VP Tribal Client Development, Avant Energy
-Track 5: ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT – Federal Contracting’s Role in Tribal Economic Development. Tribal Self-sufficiency is enhanced through successful economic development. Federal contracting programs such as the SBA 8(a) program provide Native communities with the tools to not only kick-start economic development, but build capacity and resources that will sustain the community for generations. This panel will provide insightful information that will help tribally owned business enter such programs, and then progress through these programs in a way that builds the capacity needed to serve the community long after graduation.
LOCATION: Mariners B
Moderator: Kevin Allis - Executive Director, Native American Contractors Association
Panelists:
Clyde Gooden – Vice President Business Development, NANA Development Corporation and Member, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development Board of Directors
John Hale, Director, DOE Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization
3:30pm – 3:45pm
Business Tradeshow and Business Matchmaking Expo – Grand Finale Giveaway
NCAIED Booth - South Pacific Ballroom
4:00pm
Business Tradeshow and Business Matchmaking Expo – Ends
5:30 pm – 6:30pm
Native American Sports, Entertainment and Fashion Industry Networking Reception – Meet and Greet Reception featuring Native American Sports, Film, Television, Comedy and Fashion Stars such as Adam Beach (Actor), Mariah Watchman (Model), Moses Brings Plenty (Actor), George “Comanche Boy” Tahdooahnippah (Boxer) and many more.. Open to all conference attendees.
Islander Ballroom
5:30 pm – 6:30pm
National Resource Council Reception – National Resource Council and Invited Guests Only
Tradewinds D
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
NCAIED’s “Business to Business” Dinner Networking Reception – Open To All Full Conference Attendees.
Islander Ballroom
Thursday, March 20th
8:00 am – 3:00 pm
Registration
Tradewinds E & F
8:00 am – 9:00 am
RES Networking Breakfast - Full Conference Attendees.
Islander Ballroom
9:00 am – 2:30 pm