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- By Tribal Business News Staff
- Opinion | Op-Ed
Oweesta Corporation, an intermediary for Native Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), has won a Gold Stevie Award for Nonprofit Organization of the Year at the 21st annual Stevie Awards for Women in Business.
The Stevie Awards — named from the Greek word "stephanos," meaning "crowned" — recognize workplace achievement in businesses globally. The organization cited Oweesta's "comprehensive training and certification programs," including financial coaching for families and elders.
Judges highlighted Oweesta's $90 million in total assets and $58 million for loan funding. They also noted the organization's participation in the Environmental Protection Agency's Solar For All program, where it received $156 million to support financial access in renewable energy.
As one of the largest facilitators of capital to Indian Country, Oweesta provides financial products and services to Native CDFIs while offering technical assistance and training to support strategic financial decision making in Native communities.
"Oweesta is deeply honored to receive this award, as it reflects the remarkable achievements of Native communities across the nation in their journey toward economic sovereignty," Chrystel Cornelius, CEO of Oweesta Corporation, said in a statement.
Oweesta competed against more than 12,000 nominations across all categories. Over 200 international judges determined the winners, with Oweesta taking gold in its category, just below the top "grand" classification.
Cornelius called the win "a testament to the collective power of Native communities and the resilience they demonstrate in empowering their communities with financial tools and resources."
“By fostering economic independence and inclusion, we hope to inspire future generations while amplifying our impact and supporting the shared vision of prosperity for all Native communities,” she said.