NDIA’s work in Native American and Indigenous communities has been profoundly shaped by its partnership with AMERIND, a Tribally owned/serving risk management company and partner with the National Digital Navigator Corps (NDNC), and me, Davida Delmar (Diné/Navajo), AMERIND’s Digital Inclusion Manager. As I reflect on this journey, it’s bittersweet to acknowledge that the NDNC grant program has ended, marking the conclusion of my role at both AMERIND and NDIA. However, I take immense pride in the invaluable knowledge and profound expertise I’ve been able to contribute, rooted in my experiences and the incredible network of Tribal communities who share their knowledge and stories with me.

The partnership between NDIA and AMERIND has truly opened doors and created unique growth opportunities. One of the pivotal moments was implementing an “Indian Country 101” training for the NDIA team. This initiative led to a crucial shift in perspective, enabling them to understand that Tribes are distinct political groups with a deep commitment to their sovereignty and a mindset of self-determination. This reframing has broadened NDIA’s approach, transforming it into a mutual exchange of knowledge, lived experiences, and impactful advocacy efforts.

Key Learnings and Achievements in Digital Equity Work…