Daines Announces over $150,000 for CSKT Employment Program

U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced $156,202 in funding for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe (CSKT) to implement an employment and economic development program.

The funding is for the CSKT’s Pilot Project Implementation Plan and Pilot Training Initiative, which is the third phase of their Sustainable Economic Development Project funded by the Administration for Native Americans (ANA).

“This grant is good news to help CSKT complete the final phase of their project that will increase sustainable employment and economic development opportunities,” Daines stated. 

Janet Camel, Planning Director, CSKT Economic Development Office: “The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes are very pleased to hear about our recent grant award from the Administration for Native Americans. The Employment and Entrepreneurship Project funded by the grant builds on our Strategic Plan to improve the Reservation economy and help Tribal members obtain the training needed to reach their career goals and earn a living wage.”

Gypsy Ray, Executive Director of Lake County Community Development Corporation (LCCDC): “The results of the CSKT Sustainable Economic Development Study showcased multiple opportunities for LCCDC to partner with CSKT.  The training needs identified in the study were a natural fit to leverage both state and federal funding within our program areas to support trainings for small business owners and developmental services for entrepreneurs.  CSKT is a major employer in Lake County and we are very pleased to see the ongoing support from ANA’s SEEDS grant in the community.  We are committed to enhancing the quality of life and sustainable economic well-being of all residents of the communities we serve. We look forward to continue our work with CSKT.” 

Leonard Smith, Executive Director of the Native American Development Corporation: “NADC recognizes that entrepreneurship is a strong component for economic development and sustainability on reservations. This grant will give CSKT the ability to build capacity to support entrepreneurship and jobs on the reservation.” 

The program will provide timely, customized workforce training and other support to meet the training needs of tribal members and tribal member entrepreneurs on the Flathead Reservation. Instruction will include professional skills training and business development support and resources.”

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