Empowering Growth at the Lower Sioux Indian Community
Dakota Finance Corporation is more than a lender—we are a Native-led, community rooted financial institution designed by and for the Lower Sioux Indian Community. Unlike traditional banks or outside nonprofit lenders, we understand the unique barriers, opportunities, and values of our people because we live them too.
Our approach combines cultural understanding, trust-based relationships, and flexible financial tools that support self-determination, not just credit scores. We invest in people, not just portfolios—building wealth, ownership, and opportunity from within the community.
Dakota Finance Corporation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit financial institution established by the Lower Sioux Indian Community to expand access to capital, credit-building resources, and financial education. Operating as an independent organization, it is guided by a professional board representing the Community and dedicated to strengthening economic opportunity in Native communities.
The Purpose and Mission of
Dakota Finance Corporation
The vision for Dakota Finance Corporation (DFC) is, that Lower Sioux’s tribal economy is a thriving generative cycle of giving and receiving that nurtures and strengthens the economic vitality and long-term financial well-being of members, families, the Community, and the region. DFC is guided by its mission, as established by the Community in the business planning process is to be a trusted community resource. We partner with Lower SiouxDFC is guided by its mission, and seeks to be a trusted community resource that partners with Lower Sioux members to strengthen financial knowledge, improving access to credit to develop financial assets that create wealth and contribute to economic independence and strengthen sovereignty.
Our commitment to community development is reflected in financial products, services, and programs that improve individual and business access to credit through credit building and financial knowledge sharing.
Debt consolidation, credit builder, and small business development loans to support access to credit that in turn increases wealth through asset growth. Our Native communities will thrive when individuals and families thrive.
In partnership with LSIC Education, Cansayapi Wicoicage Oti - Lower Sioux Cultural Incubator, and Lutheran Social Services, DFC offers financial education, credit repair, and counseling programs to strengthen financial literacy which is the foundation of wealth creation.
Technical assistance, coaching, and tailored financial solutions for business growth are provided, with support from the Small Business Development Center, to build the local economy by creating jobs, increasing the dollars that are retained in the community and providing needed products and services.
As a reporting agency, DFC helps improve its target market’s credit performance and bankability.
DFC actively addresses economic disparities by
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Enhancing Credit Access
Providing lending solutions to those without access or denied traditional financial services.
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Encouraging Asset Development
Funding homeownership (future) and small businesses supports equity and income generation.
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Promoting Financial Literacy
Equipping members with knowledge to manage finances responsibly.
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Fostering Economic Inclusion
Expanding capital access to strengthen community wealth and independence.
DFC is dedicated to achieving CDFI certification by fostering economic empowerment through responsible lending and financial education. Its mission-driven approach strengthens financial stability, independence, and sovereignty for the Lower Sioux Indian Community and Native American individuals residing within the geographic target market.
Who We Serve
Dakota Finance Corporation (DFC) proudly serves Native American individuals and families within a 50-mile radius of the Lower Sioux Indian Community, as well as enrolled Community Members across Minnesota. Rooted in a vibrant and sovereign Dakota tribal nation in southwestern Minnesota, the Lower Sioux Indian Community embodies a deep sense of identity, cultural continuity, and a steadfast commitment to self-determination and resilience.
The people we serve are entrepreneurs, caretakers, culture-bearers, and innovators. From youth with big dreams to elders with wisdom to share, we support individuals and families who are deeply invested in building a better future for the next seven generations.
Staff & Board
We aim to create an experience that is welcoming, supportive, and affirming—one where you'll feel seen not just as borrowers, but as leaders, builders, and dreamers. Our team leads with care, clarity, and commitment, ensuring that you not only access capital but also build confidence, capability, and long-term financial wellbeing.
Lawrence (Larry) Swann III
Braydin Kvistero
Chad Lund
Mitch Farmer
Denny Prescott
Gary Prescott
Thank You to Our Partners
Dakota Finance Corporation is funded by individual and corporate donations, foundation grants, mission-aligned investment capital and program sponsorships.
We are thankful to have great partners that believe in Dakota Finance Corporation and its mission.