2024 Indigenous Communities Fellowship
Lakota Virtual Cultural Library of Knowledge, History, & Traditional Teachings
What is the name of your solution?
Lakota Virtual Cultural Library of Knowledge, History, & Traditional Teachings
Provide a one-line summary of your solution.
The Virtual Cultural Library by Lakota Made preserves Indigenous knowledge, fosters cultural revitalization, and promotes empowerment digitally.
In what city, town, or region is your solution team headquartered?
Mankato, MN, USAIn what country is your solution team headquartered?
What type of organization is your solution team?
For-profit, including B-Corp or similar models
Film your elevator pitch.
What specific problem are you solving?
Cultural genocide significantly contributed to the loss of
Indigenous Tribes’ plant knowledge, a loss that was only
perpetuated by generations of boarding schools. Historically,
these schools were tools of colonial Christian assimilation, aiming
to eradicate Indigenous cultures. The US government forced
Indigenous children into environments designed to strip them of
their identities, languages, and traditions, through punishment and
fear, including their knowledge about plants and their uses, which
were integral to Indigenous life.
In boarding schools, children were forbidden from speaking their
native languages or practicing cultural rituals, leading to the
complete loss of traditional ecological knowledge about plants.
Many Indigenous tribes were also removed from their traditional
homelands and relocated into environments that were very
different from where they came from. Many of the plants, trees,
and fungi that they were used to were not available, therefore
forcing the tribe to rely on the rations given out by the
government.
Separated from their communities and traditional environments,
Indigenous children lost direct exposure to the land and its flora.
Without the guidance of elders and the immersive learning
environment of their homelands, they were cut off from vital
teachings about plants and their medicinal, nutritional, and
spiritual significance.
Many boarding schools subjected Indigenous children to harsh
labor and abusive treatment, leaving little time or inclination for
them to learn about plants or maintain connections to their cultural
heritage. The trauma inflicted in these environments further
severed ties to traditional knowledge systems. The impact of this
trauma was intergenerational. This loss not only deprived
Indigenous peoples of their cultural heritage but also marginalized
their ecological perspectives, contributing to the ongoing
challenges faced by Indigenous communities in reclaiming and
revitalizing their traditional knowledge systems.
Indigenous people in America are still feeling the effects of
genocide. Some would argue genocide is still happening through
lack of healthcare, poverty, price gouging by non-Indigenous
businesses on reservations, and loss of culture. Indigenous
cultures were stripped away at the threat of death just a couple of
generations back. Additionally, it was only 45 years ago that
Indigenous people were legally "allowed" to practice their
spirituality.
"At 71.8 years, American Indian and Alaska Native individuals
have the lowest life expectancy compared with other races and
ethnicities... This average life expectancy calculation of Native
individuals is lower than the 78.4 years reported by the U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Minority
Health, which uses Census Bureau projections." Morgan, B.
(2022, April 21). National Indian Council on Aging Inc.
What is your solution?
I grew up privileged to have elders and relatives that still had this
connection to our land and plant relatives. I was completely
ignorant of my privilege until four years ago when I sold my first
batch of healing salves.
Those salves are what grew into Lakota Made LLC. Today, it’s an
international business generating over $1 million in sales in 2023
and nearly 200,000 cumulative followers on social media.
Lakota Made is dedicated to rekindling Indigenous connections to
land and plant relatives. Rooted in Lakota spirituality and culture,
we leverage our platform to educate and empower through
various channels. Despite our impact, we face financial
constraints hindering our full potential.
Currently, Lakota Made LLC integrates Lakota language into over
60% of our products, serving as cultural touchstones. We
currently utilize social media platforms, including Facebook,
Instagram, and TikTok to disseminate teachings freely.
Additionally, I conduct regular classes to foster community
engagement, however this is limited by time, travel, and my
family’s needs.
With global reach spanning 218 countries and regions, our
journey revealed the depth of Indigenous disconnection. To
address this, we propose a comprehensive multifaceted
approach:
● Decolonize product labels with Lakota names, enriching
consumer education. Labels will need to comply with US
government regulatory standards
● Embed Lakota plant teachings in product descriptions,
bridging cultural divides.
● Establish an Indigenous Cultural Revitalization Library
showcasing elder teachings, traditional practices, and
language classes.
● Offer identification classes and native plant species for
cultivation, promoting ecological stewardship.
● Facilitate entrepreneurship guidance, empowering
Indigenous economic sustainability.
To ensure sustainability, we propose a paywall model for
non-Indigenous users accessing the Cultural Library. Proceeds
will fund ongoing operations and support Indigenous communities'
teaching efforts.
Our vision extends beyond profit; we aspire to create an inclusive
online platform accessible to all Indigenous individuals,
particularly those in tribal youth programs and schools. To achieve
this, we seek funding for essential resources, including recording
equipment, website development, and stipends for participating
elders and knowledge keepers.
Together, we aim to preserve Indigenous teachings for future
generations, fostering cultural resilience and economic
empowerment within our communities.
Which Indigenous community(s) does your solution benefit? In what ways will your solution benefit this community?
Lakota Made LLC, a grassroots initiative, stands as a hub of cultural revitalization and economic empowerment. At its core lies a profound mission: to reconnect Indigenous communities with their land and plant relatives, anchoring its efforts in Lakota spirituality and culture.
Recognizing the profound impact of colonization and systemic oppression on Indigenous peoples' knowledge systems, Lakota Made wants to continue to embark on a multifaceted journey to reclaim and preserve ancestral wisdom. Central to their approach is the decolonization of product labels, infusing Lakota names into their offerings while ensuring compliance with government regulatory standards, an unfortunate requirement of herbalism products. This simple yet powerful act serves as a catalyst for cultural reclamation, instilling a sense of pride and identity within Indigenous communities while educating consumers worldwide about Lakota plant knowledge.
Lakota Made's vision extends far beyond product labels; it encompasses a truly holistic approach to cultural preservation and community empowerment. Through the incorporation of Lakota plant teachings in product descriptions and the creation of a Cultural Library, the initiative provides a comprehensive platform for learning, sharing, and preserving Indigenous knowledge. Elder teachings, traditional practices, and language classes converge in this digital sanctuary, facilitating intergenerational knowledge transfer and fostering a renewed sense of cultural vitality.
Moreover, Lakota Made's commitment to environmental stewardship is evident in its efforts to reintroduce native plant species into Indigenous homelands. By restoring biodiversity, and promoting sustainable harvesting practices, the initiative not only revitalizes ecosystems but also revitalizes Indigenous connections to the land, promoting food sovereignty and cultural revival.
At the heart of Lakota Made's mission lies a dedication to economic empowerment. Through entrepreneurship guidance and the cultivation of income streams from cultural teachings, the initiative seeks to uplift Indigenous communities, providing pathways to economic self-sufficiency and prosperity through doing capitalism the right way.
Lakota Made represents more than a business venture; it embodies a movement—a movement towards cultural resilience, environmental stewardship, and economic empowerment for Indigenous peoples worldwide. With each product sold and each knowledge shared, Lakota Made paves the way for a future where Indigenous communities thrive, grounded in the wisdom of their ancestors and the resilience of their spirits.
How are you and your team well-positioned to deliver this solution?
Lakota Made has a commitment to cultural preservation and Indigenous community empowerment, revitalizing Indigenous traditions. Grounded in the wisdom of our ancestors and propelled by the collective dreams of our team, we have already taken significant strides in implementing various solutions aimed at reconnecting Indigenous communities with their land and plant relatives.
Our vision for a Cultural Library, brimming with resources curated by Indigenous authors, actors, chefs, historians, and spiritual leaders from diverse Lakota/Dakota tribes, is poised to be a cornerstone of cultural revitalization. Bolstered by a dedicated technical team ready to bring this vision to life, we are well-equipped to offer users a comprehensive platform for learning, sharing, and purchasing seeds and products rooted in Lakota/Dakota heritage.
At the heart of our mission lies a profound understanding of community needs, through many community conversations. We recognize that the talent and cultural richness within Indigenous communities are abundant, yet the lack of financial resources remains a significant barrier to fully realizing our goals. Through the support of this grant, we aim to bridge this gap, empowering Indigenous communities to reclaim and celebrate their heritage with pride and resilience.
Together, let us embark on this journey of cultural renewal, guided by the voices of our ancestors and the dreams and ambitions of future generations. With your investment, we can turn our aspirations into reality, creating a legacy of cultural revitalization that will endure for years to come.
Which dimension of the Challenge does your solution most closely address?
Drive positive outcomes for Indigenous learners of any age and context through culturally grounded educational opportunities.Which of the UN Sustainable Development Goals does your solution address?
What is your solution’s stage of development?
PilotWhy are you applying to Solve?
Introduced to MIT SOLVE through a trusted friend, I'm compelled to explore the potential of this grant opportunity for our Indigenous Cultural Library initiative. While previously aware of such opportunities, the demands of managing Lakota Made have often diverted my attention. Nonetheless, I am eager to pursue avenues that could further our mission.
Our vision for the Cultural Library, seed cultivation, and label transformation represents a significant leap forward in Indigenous cultural revitalization. However, despite the success of our pilot initiatives, we encounter formidable barriers in fully realizing this vision.
Financial constraints pose a primary challenge, impeding our ability to scale up our operations and meet the diverse needs of Indigenous communities effectively. Furthermore, navigating the legal landscape surrounding Indigenous cultural heritage and product labeling requires specialized expertise beyond our current resources. Additionally, while our team possesses considerable technical acumen, the intricacies of developing and maintaining a robust online platform demand resources and skills beyond our current capacity.
Overcoming these barriers is essential to unlocking the full potential of our initiative and realizing its transformative impact. With the support of MIT SOLVE, we aim to address these challenges head-on, leveraging the grant to secure the necessary financial resources, legal expertise, and technical assistance. By doing so, we can bridge the gap between aspiration and implementation, ensuring that our Indigenous Cultural Library becomes a beacon of cultural resilience and empowerment for generations to come.
In which of the following areas do you most need partners or support?
Who is the Team Lead for your solution?
Megan L. Bull Bear - Schnitker, sole owner of Lakota Made LLC
Please indicate the tribal affiliation of your Team Lead.
Sicangu Lakota ( Rosebud Sioux Tribe)
How is your Team Lead connected to the community or communities in which your project is based?
Megan L. Bull Bear-Schnitker, born and raised in the Milks Camp Community of the Sicangu Oyate (Rosebud Sioux Tribe). Megan lived in rural Milks Camp a majority of her life, as a young child her parents worked full time and went to school full time. So after school /during the summer Megan would go with her cousins to her grandparents farm. If chores were to be avoided Megan and her cousins would play outside all day, no matter the weather. On the farm there were acres and acres to wander, hills, woods, a creek, pastures, hay bail lots, cows, horses and little supervision (as most 80s kids can relate). Given the freedom of the farm and as feral children do, injuries happened, bug bites, the need for the occasional snack etc. Megan’s uncle Neil was the first to show her what plants could do! She was fascinated, and from there her love for plants, fungi, trees, and everything nature took off! As she grew older she was introduced to her great grandmother on her fathers side of the family. Megan’s great grandmother Eva, sat on a hospital bed in the back room of her grandfather's house, she wore a floral dress with pockets in the front and a scarf over her hair. It was hot, and there was a fan on her as she stared out the window. “Han, thakoza uwA” (grandchild come here) Megan remembers her saying. Megan didn’t grow up hearing the language until that moment, Megan sat with her great grandmother, not a lot was said because of the language barrier but the one thing she said in english megan remembers from that first meeting was that “all your food and medicine is outside, it's not in a pill or a store”. Megan didn’t have many more teachings from her before she passed, but those few teachings Megan holds very close to her heart. Those moments stuck in Megan's mind for her whole life and taught her to listen to the Lakota stories and learn from the plants.
In Megan’s late teens and early twenties she struggled with addiction, the wrong friends and eventually ended up in a lot of legal trouble. Megan used that as a lesson, went to treatment and sought out to reconnect to her culture. Megan used her 20s to attend as many cultural events as she could, listening to elders, asking questions and participating as much as she could. Through those acts she found the plant stories, the uses, traditional harvesting practices, and how to use. Megan still keeps her connections from all those teachers and communities.
In 2017 while making a batch of salves Megan decided to list the extras on facebook, to her surprise they sold instantly. Thus, Lakota Made LLC was born—a testament to Indigenous resilience and ingenuity. As the founder of this woman-owned enterprise, Megan infuses her heart and soul into crafting small-batch products imbued with cultural narratives and traditional Lakota knowledge. Alongside her children and dedicated team, she meticulously harvests and processes ingredients, infusing each creation with the essence of her heritage and a commitment to purity.
At Lakota Made, Megan's unwavering dedication to quality shines through in every meticulously crafted product. Many products are developed from family needs, friends needs and customer needs. Megan spends significant time developing recipes for her customers, children, friends and family. Having struggled with western medicine Megan focuses on what Unci Maka provides for us and turning it into a healing remedy. Rejecting by-products, fillers, and synthetic additives, she selects ingredients that are not only safe but deeply nourishing for individuals of all ages.
In her relentless pursuit of honoring her roots and enriching the lives of others, Megan epitomizes the timeless spirit of Indigenous entrepreneurship. By melding tradition with innovation, she endeavors to forge a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come—one small-batch product at a time.
Megan continues to share her knowledge and skills with the world through small classes, online and in person. She shares her entrepreneurial knowledge as much as she can, uplifting other Indigenous artists and entrepreneurs through her online presence. Megan regularly works with other tribes, indigenous lead organizations, and small businesses to grow the traditional knowledge she was given and to still learn from elders.
What makes your solution innovative?
The envisioned virtual Cultural Library curated by Lakota Made will serve as a comprehensive repository of Lakota/Dakota teachings, beginning with the intricate knowledge surrounding plant identification, harvesting practices, and diverse applications. Rooted in Indigenous wisdom, the library will feature cultural stories woven around these plants, illuminating their significance within Lakota/Dakota traditions and showcasing the nuanced ways different tribes utilize them.
As the cornerstone of this ambitious project, the focus will expand to encompass teachings on the sacred relationship with the buffalo, covering harvesting methods, utilization of different parts, and preservation techniques. This dynamic platform will continue to evolve, with an ever-growing collection of instructional videos, storytelling sessions, and practical demonstrations.
Central to the library's ethos is its commitment to honoring Indigenous knowledge holders. Each section will provide a gateway for users to connect directly with teachers, facilitating the booking of in-person classes and ensuring the preservation of traditional, hands-on learning experiences. Moreover, the library will incorporate a sustainable revenue model, with a portion of proceeds from video sales directed back to the teachers, thus fostering ongoing income streams and incentivizing the continuation of their invaluable teachings.
To ensure the integrity and accessibility of this invaluable resource, the library will implement a paywall system for non-Indigenous individuals and organizations seeking private access. Those wishing to utilize the library for public or educational purposes will be required to obtain a public viewing license. In stark contrast, Indigenous peoples, tribal programs, and Indigenous-led organizations will enjoy unrestricted, complimentary access, guaranteeing equitable access to this vital repository for generations to come.
Through this visionary initiative, Lakota Made seeks to create a bridge between tradition and innovation, empowering Indigenous communities to reclaim, preserve, and share their cultural heritage in a digital age. With your support, we can elevate Indigenous voices, foster cross-cultural understanding, and safeguard ancestral knowledge for the benefit of all humanity.
This library has been never been done through this model before and will be a blue print for other tribes to follow with their tribal teachings or to invest in our library to add their own stories and teachings to the library.
This Virtual Cultural Library is an effort to help stop the culture vulture, -pretendian movements where non-indigenous peoples gain a platform and continue the cultural appropriation of a culture they know nothing of. The library will only use vetted teachers, elders, and indigenous community members to ensure the integrity of the Library and its content is upheld to the highest of standards.
Describe in simple terms how and why you expect your solution to have an impact on the problem.
The envisioned Virtual Cultural Library represents a transformative endeavor aimed at revitalizing Indigenous culture, enhancing food systems, and addressing pressing health challenges within Indigenous communities. By providing access to traditional knowledge and reconnecting Indigenous peoples with their ancestral lands, the library seeks to empower communities to reclaim their cultural heritage and improve overall well-being.
Step One entails the creation of the Virtual Cultural Library, hosted separately from Lakota Made, focusing initially on plant teachings, stories, and Elder wisdom. Through the systematic recording of Elder teachings and the aggregation of culturally relevant content, the library will serve as a digital repository of Indigenous knowledge, accessible to learners at their own pace and convenience.
Step Two involves the decolonization of product labels within Lakota Made, incorporating QR codes linking directly to the Virtual Cultural Library. By leveraging Lakota Made's extensive social media following and customer base, this strategic integration will immediately amplify the reach and impact of the library, fostering greater engagement and awareness among consumers.
Step Three marks the dissemination of the Virtual Cultural Library to Indigenous partners, tribes, and community projects, followed by a public release through various media channels. Through targeted outreach and strategic partnerships, the library will be positioned as a valuable resource for Indigenous communities, facilitating access to traditional teachings and fostering cultural revitalization.
The impact of this initiative is multifaceted. By bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, the Virtual Cultural Library will empower Indigenous communities to reclaim their cultural identity and strengthen connections to the land. Moreover, by providing comprehensive resources on foraging, wild harvesting, gardening, and traditional food preservation, the library will contribute to improved food sovereignty, reduced reliance on processed foods, and enhanced nutritional outcomes.
In summary, the creation and dissemination of the Virtual Cultural Library represent a pivotal step towards addressing the complex challenges facing Indigenous communities. Through accessible, culturally relevant education and resources, this initiative has the potential to catalyze transformative change, empowering Indigenous peoples to thrive and reclaim their rightful place as stewards of their ancestral lands and traditions.
What are your impact goals for your solution and how are you measuring your progress towards them?
The impact goals of the Virtual Cultural Library are ambitious yet measurable, designed to assess the effectiveness of the initiative in empowering Indigenous communities, fostering cultural revitalization, and promoting educational outreach. Through strategic measurement and analysis, we aim to track progress and refine strategies to maximize impact. Key measurable impact areas include:
Engagement Metrics: Website analytics will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the library's public release, measuring metrics such as website traffic, user engagement, and duration of visits. This data will help gauge the level of interest and reach among the general public.
Community Outreach: By tracking data through our website host, we will measure the impact of the library on Indigenous communities. This includes monitoring the number of free classes provided to different communities, identifying usage patterns, and assessing overall engagement levels.
Financial Sustainability: The amount of funds generated will serve as a critical indicator of the project's financial sustainability and long-term viability. By analyzing revenue streams, including class sales to non-Indigenous individuals and donations, we can evaluate the project's financial health and make informed decisions to ensure its continuity.
Teacher Impact: We will measure the impact of the library on individual teachers by tracking the revenue generated from their classes, the frequency of requests for in-person teaching, and other relevant metrics. This data will help us understand the effectiveness of their contributions and identify areas for improvement or support.
Community Feedback: In addition to quantitative data, qualitative feedback from Indigenous communities and users will be instrumental in assessing the library's impact. Surveys, interviews, and testimonials will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the content, user experience, and overall satisfaction with the initiative.
By systematically tracking and analyzing these impact metrics, we will be able to evaluate progress towards our goals, identify areas of success, and address challenges to continuously improve the effectiveness and relevance of the Virtual Cultural Library. This data-driven approach will ensure that the initiative remains responsive to the needs of Indigenous communities and maximizes its potential to empower and uplift Indigenous peoples for generations to come.
Describe the core technology that powers your solution.
The Virtual Cultural Library represents a groundbreaking initiative aimed at preserving and sharing Indigenous knowledge and traditions in a digital format. To effectively implement this ambitious project, a range of cutting-edge technologies will be leveraged, each serving a unique purpose in enhancing accessibility, engagement, and impact. Here's a comprehensive overview of the technologies that will be utilized:
Website Development: The cornerstone of the Virtual Cultural Library will be a custom-built website, designed to host an extensive collection of multimedia content, including videos, articles, and interactive resources. This website will serve as a user-friendly platform for accessing and navigating the library's vast repository of Indigenous knowledge.
Content Management System (CMS): A robust CMS will be employed to facilitate the organization, storage, and retrieval of content within the Virtual Cultural Library. This system will enable administrators to efficiently upload, categorize, and update resources, ensuring seamless access for users.
Video Hosting and Streaming: High-quality video hosting and streaming services will be utilized to deliver instructional videos, storytelling sessions, and cultural demonstrations within the library. These platforms will ensure optimal playback quality and reliability, enhancing the overall user experience.
QR Code Integration: QR codes will be strategically integrated into product labels within Lakota Made's product line, linking directly to relevant content within the Virtual Cultural Library. This innovative feature will provide consumers with instant access to additional information about Indigenous plant teachings and traditional practices.
Website Analytics Tools: Advanced website analytics tools will be deployed to track user engagement, website traffic, and other key metrics. This data will enable ongoing assessment of the library's impact, helping to inform decision-making and optimize content delivery strategies.
E-commerce Platform: An integrated e-commerce platform will facilitate the sale of classes, products, and memberships within the Virtual Cultural Library. This platform will support secure transactions and seamless integration with other library features, such as class registration and access management.
Community Engagement Tools: Social media integration, discussion forums, and interactive features will be incorporated to foster community engagement and collaboration within the Virtual Cultural Library. These tools will facilitate dialogue, knowledge sharing, and networking among users, enriching the overall learning experience.
By harnessing the power of these technologies, the Virtual Cultural Library will provide a dynamic and immersive platform for preserving, sharing, and celebrating Indigenous knowledge and traditions. Through seamless integration with Lakota Made's product line and strategic outreach efforts, the library will serve as a catalyst for cultural revitalization and empowerment within Indigenous communities and beyond.
Which of the following categories best describes your solution?
A new application of an existing technology
Please select the technologies currently used in your solution:
If your solution has a website or an app, provide the links here:
we currently don't have the vision live
In which parts of the US and/or Canada do you currently operate?
We currently operate in Mankato Minnesota with Lakota Made LLC. However as stated previously with our current following we have shipped our products to over 218 different countries and territories all over the world. With our implementation of the Virtual Cultural Library will be instantly world wide with our reach.
Which, if any, additional parts of the US or Canada will you be operating in within the next year?
We plan to continue to expand our reach our estimated daily reach is 330million people with our current Facebook analytics. We are working with a SEO manager to increase our conversions on our website as well as expand our reach.
How many people work on your solution team?
Currently Lakota Made is 10 employees, 6 full time employees and 4 part time employees with 4 contractors.
Of our 10 employees we have 7 that are Indigenous and 3 non-indigenous
How long have you been working on your solution?
We have been working on the Virtual Cultural Library for 2 years, we have just purchased some recording equipment that we can begin working on it. We have 4 classes recorded and waiting for capitol funds to begin working on the website.
Tell us about how you ensure that your team is diverse, minimizes barriers to opportunity for staff, and provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for all team members.
As an Indigenous woman-owned small business, Lakota Made LLC embodies a commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all team members, regardless of cultural background. With a workforce comprised of 7 Indigenous employees and 3 non-Indigenous individuals, the company embraces diversity as a cornerstone of its organizational culture. Here's how Lakota Made ensures a supportive and inclusive workplace environment:
Cultural Sensitivity Training: Recognizing the importance of cultural understanding and respect, Lakota Made provides comprehensive cultural sensitivity training to all team members. This training fosters awareness of Indigenous traditions, values, and perspectives, promoting empathy and mutual respect among employees.
Open Dialogue and Communication: The company encourages open dialogue and communication among team members, creating a safe space for sharing perspectives, experiences, and concerns. Regular team meetings, feedback sessions, and one-on-one check-ins facilitate meaningful conversations and promote a sense of belonging for all employees.
Celebration of Diversity: Lakota Made celebrates the diversity of its workforce, acknowledging and honoring the unique cultural backgrounds and contributions of each team member. Cultural events, traditions, and holidays are recognized and celebrated, fostering a sense of pride and unity among employees.
Equitable Opportunities for Growth: The company is committed to providing equitable opportunities for professional growth and advancement to all team members, irrespective of cultural background. Performance evaluations and promotions are based on merit, skills, and contributions, ensuring fairness and inclusivity in career development.
Supportive Work Environment: Lakota Made cultivates a supportive work environment where team members feel valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. Flexible work arrangements, wellness programs, and employee assistance resources are available to support the holistic well-being of all employees.
Community Engagement and Outreach: As a socially responsible business, Lakota Made actively engages with Indigenous communities and organizations, seeking input and feedback on its initiatives and products. By fostering partnerships and collaborations, the company amplifies Indigenous voices and promotes community empowerment.
Commitment to Continuous Improvement: Lakota Made is committed to continuous improvement in diversity, equity, and inclusion practices. Regular assessments, feedback mechanisms, and diversity training initiatives are implemented to identify areas for improvement and ensure ongoing progress towards a more inclusive workplace culture.
In summary, Lakota Made LLC prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion in its workplace culture, striving to create a supportive and welcoming environment where all team members feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. Through intentional efforts and ongoing commitment, the company fosters a culture of belonging that celebrates the richness of Indigenous heritage and embraces diversity as a source of strength and innovation.
What is your business model?
Key resources: We will be needing technical assistance to build the website, QR codes, app integrations and paywall, legal to help with the labels and making sure we are FDA & government regulation compliant, and financial to get the library up and running.
Partners & Key StakeHolders: Elders, Cultural Knowledge keepers, Cultural teachers, tribal programs / orgs, Indigenous Lead orgs
Key Activities: Create wesbite with paywall, QR Codes, product labels to point to LM website with links to Virtual Cultural Library to learn more about our cultural stories and teachings surrounding the plants used in the products, Record videos / write curriculums for some of the teachings, Gather as much cultural knowledge as we can. Launch the website
Type of Intervention: Product. Cultural Educational Videos that anyone can access, Indigenous Peoples get it for free all non-indigenous peoples / schools / programs / general public will pay for the classes / videos / curriculum.
Channels: Social media, youtube, newsletters, Lakota Made website, word of mouth.
Cost Structure: Website build, video recording equipment, editing equipment, teacher stipends, traveling costs, videographer/editor, website maintenance, these costs will decrease over time.
Segments: free use: Tribal programs / youth programs / tribal schools / Indigenous lead orgs. paywall use: public schools, non-indigenous orgs, folk schools, universities, community colleges, faith based orgs/schools, general public.
Surplus / Revenue: profits will ultimately be divided up a percentage will go back to the teacher / elder / etc person that recorded the video as an on going income, the rest will be divided up into on going costs and furthering the mission of building the library.
Value Proposition: All measure-ables will be collected through the website we can ask participants to complete surveys and community surveys to measure the social impact. Our expected impact is correcting history that is taught in schools, reducing racism in general populations and future generations.
Do you primarily provide products or services directly to individuals, to other organizations, or to the government?
Individual consumers or stakeholders (B2C)What is your plan for becoming financially sustainable, and what evidence can you provide that this plan has been successful so far?
Lakota Made LLC's Virtual Cultural Library represents a visionary initiative aimed at preserving Indigenous knowledge and traditions while promoting cultural revitalization and empowerment. At its core, the library serves as a digital repository of Indigenous teachings, stories, and practices, accessible to individuals of all backgrounds. Here's how the business and sustainability model of the Virtual Cultural Library are structured:
Revenue Streams: The Virtual Cultural Library generates revenue through multiple streams, including:
- Class Sales: Indigenous and non-Indigenous individuals alike can purchase access to virtual classes on traditional teachings, cultural practices, and practical skills such as foraging, wild harvesting, and food preservation.
- Public Viewing Licenses: Non-Indigenous organizations, educational institutions, and individuals can obtain licenses to access and use the library's content for public or educational purposes, generating revenue through licensing fees.
- Donations and Sponsorships: The library welcomes donations and sponsorships from individuals, organizations, and corporations committed to supporting Indigenous cultural preservation and empowerment.
Integration with Lakota Made Products: The library is seamlessly integrated with Lakota Made's product line, enhancing customer engagement and driving sales. QR codes on product labels direct consumers to relevant content within the library, fostering deeper connections with Indigenous teachings and traditions.
Community Partnerships: The library forms strategic partnerships with Indigenous communities, tribal programs, and organizations, fostering community engagement and collaboration. These partnerships not only enrich the library's content but also expand its reach and impact, driving user growth and revenue generation.
Membership Model: The library offers membership subscriptions, providing access to exclusive content, events, and discounts on classes and products. Membership fees contribute to the library's sustainability while incentivizing user engagement and loyalty.
Data-Driven Insights: Advanced analytics tools track user engagement, class sales, and revenue streams, providing valuable insights into user behavior and preferences. This data-driven approach informs decision-making and optimization strategies, ensuring the library's long-term viability and relevance.
Continuous Improvement and Innovation: The library is committed to continuous improvement and innovation, regularly updating and expanding its content offerings to meet the evolving needs and interests of users. By staying responsive to user feedback and market trends, the library remains a dynamic and relevant platform for cultural preservation and education.
In summary, the business and sustainability model of Lakota Made LLC's Virtual Cultural Library is multifaceted, leveraging diverse revenue streams, strategic partnerships, and data-driven insights to ensure long-term viability and impact. By generating revenue while preserving and sharing Indigenous knowledge, the library embodies the principles of cultural sustainability and empowerment, paving the way for a brighter future for Indigenous communities and beyond.
Solution Team
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Our Organization
Lakota Made LLC