Task Forces
Equitable Homeownership Opportunities
The Montana Native Homeownership Coalition implements strategies that are designed to achieve our mission of creating equitable homeownership opportunities for Native Americans in Montana. We have mobilized three task forces to systematically dismantle barriers to homeownership while supporting proven approaches designed to increase Native homeownership.
Education and Counseling Committee
This group is committed to empowering Native American families with the knowledge and skills to achieve homeownership. Through tailored education programs, counseling services, and community outreach, the committee fosters financial literacy, readiness, and long-term success for tribal homeowners.
The Education and Counseling Committee develops and implements programs that prepare Native families for the journey to homeownership. From financial literacy workshops to credit counseling, the committee equips participants with the tools needed to navigate the home-buying process. By collaborating with tribal housing entities, lenders, and community leaders, the committee ensures its resources are accessible and culturally relevant. Its goal is to build a pipeline of informed, empowered homeowners who can sustain their investment and contribute to their communities’ growth.
Milestones
1
Expand homebuyer education and training by developing and delivering homebuyer and financial education training to three tribes not currently offering in-person courses and publishing supporting curriculum and materials.
3
Implement a standardized data collection tool and begin collecting homebuyer education outcomes and homeownership stories across participating tribes.
5
Collect and share at least five homeownership stories (successes and challenges) and launch a story telling initiative to increase community engagement.
2
Strengthen counselor capacity by hosting a HUD certification training, developing and publishing a counselor certification resource guide, and developing a training curriculum for housing authorities.
4
Increase Coalition presence and engagement by conducting at least three in-person tribal visits and recruiting new members to the Education Committee.
6
Deliver at least one specialized training (NMLS or NAHASDA related) and establish targeted partnerships to support financial capacity and counseling programs.
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Infrastructure and Housing Development Committee
This committee strives to strengthen housing opportunities in Native communities by addressing infrastructure challenges, supporting sustainable development, and fostering innovative housing solutions tailored to tribal needs.
This committee focuses on enhancing the foundational aspects of housing development in Native communities. From improving utility access and roads to supporting innovative housing models, the committee collaborates with tribal governments, housing authorities, and stakeholders to address critical infrastructure needs. Asset mapping projects, strategic planning, and advocating for funding are central to its work. By addressing gaps and creating actionable solutions, the committee aims to build sustainable, culturally appropriate housing ecosystems.
Milestones
1
Expand housing development capacity.
3
Build strategic partnerships.
5
Explore innovative housing solutions.
2
Strengthen workforce and trades training.
4
Improve infrastructure planning and resources.
6
Data and inventory development.
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Mortgage Lending Committee
This working committee is dedicated to creating pathways to homeownership for Native American families by addressing the unique challenges of lending on tribal lands. Through collaboration with lenders, tribal governments, and community stakeholders, the committee works to simplify processes, promote education, and ensure access to affordable mortgage products that align with tribal values and sovereignty.
The Mortgage Lending Committee focuses on improving access to mortgage financing for Native communities. By working closely with financial institutions and tribal entities, the committee identifies and addresses barriers to lending on trust land. Initiatives include streamlining leasehold processes, developing culturally appropriate lending models, and fostering partnerships to expand homeownership opportunities. The committee also provides resources and tools to educate lenders and tribal members on navigating the mortgage process effectively.
Milestones
1
Strengthen lender education and engagement by developing and delivering at least 3 lender trainings for non-Native lending institutions and tribal-serving lenders to increase understanding of lending on tribal land.
3
Align policy and systems by developing and publishing one policy brief/white paper identifying key barriers to lending on tribal land and proposed solutions.
2
Develop lending tools and resources. Complete and publish core lending resources for at least two to three tribes, including homesite lease and foreclosure processes, and create a scalable template for statewide use.
4
Expand partnerships and expertise by recruiting three new partners with lending expertise to actively participate in the Mortgage Lending Committee.