"Many people don’t know much about Native Americans, even though their contributions to society are significant. And that’s especially true when it comes to the world of business; in some states, Native American-run businesses employ thousands of people and generate millions in revenue. In Oklahoma, the Chickasaw Nation paid $318 million to employees in 2011, and counting auxiliary affiliated jobs, that total was about $528 million.

Following are some of the more prominent Native American businesses:

Technology

Cetan Corp, a technology company based in Virginia, was number 119 on Inc. 5000’s list of top companies in 2011. The company specializes in software solutions and professional tech services and was started by Brad Scott, an entrepreneur of Chickasaw descent. The company name, Cetan, is taken from the Native American mythological figure Chetan, a messenger and observer.

Cetan’s clients include Jo-Ann Fabrics, Weight Watchers, Wendy’s, Sony Pictures, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Library of Congress and Department of Veteran Affairs.

Technology is an area in which more Native American-run businesses are emerging. The Cherokee Nation’s technology division, for instance, offers a number of professional services, including government and business technology solutions."

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Native American-run Businesses Spur Economic Growth  (B2C 1/8)