Native First Lending receives $1 Million to Seed Revolving Loan Fund with ICON CDC
Los Angeles, CA —June 25, 2025 – Native First Lending has been awarded a $1 million grant from the California Jobs First initiative to launch a revolving loan fund dedicated to supporting Native American-owned businesses in Los Angeles County. The grant is part of a broader $15 million commitment from the state of California through the Regional Investment Initiative to support tribal-led economic growth and workforce development across the state.
In partnership with ICON CDC, a leading provider of small business technical assistance in Los Angeles County, Native First Lending will offer access to capital and expert support for Native-owned businesses, focusing on job creation and sustainable business development in historically underserved communities. As part of California Jobs First, the state’s 10-year economic strategy, this investment reflects a commitment to empowering tribal communities through targeted economic planning, business development, and high-quality job creation. The initiative aims to build resilient, inclusive economies through projects that support workforce training, business incubation, environmental stewardship, and innovation.
“This investment affirms what we have always known—when Tribal Nations are given the tools to lead,
we create real, lasting change,” said President Rudy Ortega Jr., L.H.D of the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians. “Native First Lending’s revolving loan fund is a step forward in restoring economic power to our communities, fostering Native entrepreneurship, and building a more inclusive and resilient economy for future generations.”
“This $15 million commitment recognizes that, since time immemorial, California tribes have been best aware of the opportunities and advantages of their regions and communities,” said Ray Salas, spokesperson for Native First Lending. “California is proud to partner with tribes across the state to support good jobs and expand economic opportunity in a meaningful and lasting way, delivering on the promises we made years ago.”
ICON CDC will provide comprehensive technical assistance to loan recipients, including business planning, strategy, one-on-one consulting, and access to broader financing opportunities. “We are honored to work alongside Native First Lending to ensure Native entrepreneurs and small business owners have the tools they need to succeed,” said Roberto Barragan, Executive Director of ICON CDC. “This partnership is about more than capital—it’s about creating jobs, building community wealth, and advancing equitable economic growth across Los Angeles.”
Learn More
More information about the loan fund, eligibility, and application process at http://nativefirstlending.com/.
