The Northwest Native Chamber is a dynamic nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting small businesses through strategic initiatives aimed at business growth and sustainability. Our work is guided by the belief that Native businesses are a foundation for emerging Native economies that would provide employment and educational opportunities and allow our Native communities the opportunity to break the generational cycles of poverty. Aligning with this, we continue to work toward a brighter future with a thriving and connected Native American community that empowers its business leaders with resources, partnerships, and services that ensure their success and support their aspirations.
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Business Capital Advancement Specialist to join our team. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in supporting Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individuals (SEDI) and Very Small Businesses (VSBs) by providing strategic guidance, resources, and training necessary for securing capital specifically Oregon Lenders with access to the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) funds. The specialist will collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to identify potential businesses, assess their capital needs, and guide them through the process of accessing financial resources. This is a limited-duration position with funding secured based on performance through 2027. This recruitment will be used to establish a list of qualified candidates to fill the current positions and may be used to fill future vacancies.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct culturally relevant outreach to identify and support SEDI-owned businesses
- Collaborate with partner organizations and community referrals to identify eligible businesses for the program
- Leverage internal referrals from other programs within the organization to identify suitable candidates for the Capital Advancement program
- Develop and implement targeted social media campaigns and marketing strategies to raise awareness among SEDI entrepreneurs
- Organize and host workshops, webinars, and informational sessions on financial literacy and access to capital
- Conduct one-on-one consultations with businesses to assess their specific capital needs
- Offer training programs on financial management and investor readiness to enhance business preparedness
- Assist businesses in preparing loan applications, business plans, and grant proposals
- Connect businesses with potential funding sources and mentors within the community
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of client interactions, progress, and outcomes
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, or a related field.
- Proven experience in business development, financial management, or related roles
- Familiarity with the unique challenges faced by SEDI-owned businesses and VSBs
- Strong understanding of financial literacy, access to capital, and investment readiness
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders
- Caseload/ Client Management skills and experience
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
- Experience in organizing and conducting workshops, webinars, and outreach events
- Knowledge of local business ecosystems and community resources
- Strong organizational and project management skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM software
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should visit Northwest Native Chamber's Careers Indeed Page and submit a resume, cover letter, and any relevant supporting documents, including professional references.
The Northwest Native Chamber is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace, fostering an inclusive environment where individuals are valued and respected. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, disability, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds, including Native American communities, to apply.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $33.00 - $36.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Flexible schedule
- Flexible spending account
- Paid time off
Schedule:
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Portland, OR 97239