Chris James

Chris James is the President and CEO of The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development, specialising in the Indigenous economy, Native American policy, and development in rural and disadvantaged communities.

Under Chris's leadership, The National Center has more than doubled its annual revenue, expanded its national footprint, and grown its staff. The organisation hosts the annual Reservation Economic Summit (RES), the largest conference and trade show focused exclusively on the American Indian economy, and runs the Native Edge Institute series, offering one-day training sessions for entrepreneurs. Chris has also increased the Centre's focus on international trade, particularly Indigenous-to-Indigenous trade, serving as a vital connector between corporate America and Native-owned businesses seeking to enter supply chains.

Previously, Chris held senior roles in the Department of Treasury and the Small Business Administration (SBA) during the Obama administration. He has expertise in government contracting, supply chains, underserved markets, community development, and access to capital. His SBA initiative, Startup in a Day, was praised by President Obama during the 2016 State of the Union address.

Chris serves on multiple boards and committees, including the SBA, Federal Communications Commission, and the World Trade Organisation. He frequently speaks at conferences and events and has testified on Native American and Alaska Native policy before Congress.