About ONAC

History & Mission

Our Mission

We are dedicated to working with all members of the community to advance the educational and economic opportunities for Native Americans in Oregon and Southwest Washington.

We Promote

The education, training and cultural understanding of Native Americans, ONAC members and ONAC partners through access to economic development programs, services and resources.
The development, growth and advancement of Native American businesses, professionals and students in Oregon and Southwest Washington.
Networking to increase business opportunities among Native American businesses, professionals, ONAC members and ONAC partners, thereby strengthening and growing economic opportunity for all communities in Oregon and Southwest Washington.

Upcoming Events

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Our History

In 1994, Mitch Conley, who worked for the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, had the vision of a Native American Chamber of Commerce. He talked about his ideas with another man, Clyde Stryker. Mitch ended up leaving the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde before his vision became a reality.

Clyde Stryker met with Shelly Hansen and organized the first meeting. This first meeting was held at the Willamette University in Salem, Oregon. The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde financially supported the Oregon Native American Chamber of Commerce (ONACC) at this time. The Oregon Native American Chamber of Commerce (ONACC) began very small, approximately 10 people who attended in the beginning. The President was Clyde Stryker, the Vice President was John Witty, and Elaine Moore on the Board as Treasurer.

November 1995, ONACC filed as a non-profit organization and John Levitt, from Pacific One Bank, assisted with development of the by-laws.

December 2008 “Oregon Native American Chamber of Commerce”(ONACC) applied for and gained status as a 501c3 and changed their name to the “Oregon Native American Chamber”(ONAC) to abide by 501c3 law requirements.