THE FUTURE IS REMATRIATED ECONOMIES.

We are centering rematriation.

Even rising apprenticeships meant to create alternative economies do not account for the generational knowledge and responsibilities Indigenous women know and live.  Enduring the effects of colonization, patriarchy, land theft, legislative poverty and exploitative capitalism, we know Indigenous women continue to be the central force of their homes, communities, and nations. 

The recentering of Indigenous women as caretakers and leaders of economic systems will support their family, communities and tribes to build toward a future of economic mobility and justice. We believe in rebalancing of feminine energy and knowledge within decision circles. This is our approach to rebuilding/reimagining systems through a matriarchal lens.

We know another economy is possible.

In 2021, it was reported by Bay Street Capital Holdings that women were in a position to raise only 2% of $330 billion in venture capital. Of that 2%, less than 0.50% went to Black women, approximately 0.51% went to Latino founders, roughly 0.71% went to Asian women, and a meager 0.004% went to Indigenous founders.

REA is the only apprenticeship program designed for Indigenous women by Indigenous women.

Even rising apprenticeships meant to create alternative economies do not account for the generational knowledge and responsibilities Indigenous women know and live.  Enduring the effects of colonization, patriarchy, land theft, legislative poverty and exploitative capitalism, we know Indigenous women continue to be the central force of their homes, communities, and nations. 

It is now that we must create our own pathways that support the mind, body and spirit of Indigenous women - a holistic apprenticeship created to meet Indigenous women where they are and help them succeed to be next economy leaders in finance and fund management.

Our Team

Melissa Begay

Program Manager

Cecily Engelhart

Lead Coach + Facilitator

Jacqueline Jennings

Investor In Residence

Vanessa Roanhorse

Program Administrator

Elyse Dempsey

Senior Project Manager

Mateo Perez

Marketing + Design Manager

Mari Hicks

Project Support

Justine Correa

Project Support

Olivia Roanhorse

Research + Evaluation Lead

Casey Long

Research + Evaluation Support

Shawna Douma

Research + Evaluation Support


Ecosystem Partners

Liz Gamboa
New Mexico Community Capital

Advisory Partner

Jaime Gloshay
Common Future

Advisory Partner