With over twenty-five years of experience advancing public policy, governance, and government affairs for Tribal governments, Irene Folstrom (Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe) serves as the Executive Director of the Minnesota Indigenous Business Alliance. Renowned as a dynamic, results-driven leader, Irene has cultivated a distinguished career dedicated to building Indigenous political power and advancing Tribal sovereignty.

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Irene's expertise spans a broad spectrum of strategic initiatives, from securing substantial funding for critical projects to designing and implementing innovative programs that uplift Indigenous communities. Her collaborative approach has forged lasting partnerships among Tribal nations, state agencies, and federal entities, strengthening government-to-government relations and ensuring that Indigenous voices are at the forefront of policy decision-making.

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Building on her extensive experience, Irene served as Director of Tribal Relations for the State of Minnesota’s Department of Public Safety, where she advised executive leadership on Tribal consultation and public safety matters and represented the Department in working closely with all 11 Tribal nations in Minnesota, as well as urban Indigenous communities. Prior to this, Irene led the government relations work for the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, driving impactful change through innovative engagement strategies and visionary leadership.

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Irene holds a law degree from Cornell Law School and a bachelor’s degree with Honors from Stanford University. 

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Sarah “LittleRedfeather” Kalmanson serves as the Marketing Communications Director for the Minnesota Indigenous Business Alliance (MNIBA) and is a proud tribal descendant of the White Earth and Lac Courte Oreilles Anishinaabe. Both her mother and grandmother hold enrollment status within these vibrant communities, grounding Sarah in a rich cultural heritage.

 

With over twenty years of extensive experience in the arts, cultural sector, and nonprofit organizations centered around movement and community wellness, Sarah has cultivated a robust skill set in various disciplines, including graphic design, marketing, media relations, business development, management, and strategic planning. Her multifaceted background allows her to approach challenges with creative solutions and innovative thinking.

 

Her unwavering dedication is focused on the success and ongoing educational initiatives of MNIBA, where she champions the importance of promoting Indigenous business and economic empowerment.

 

Throughout her career, Sarah has exhibited exceptional leadership qualities by spearheading acclaimed projects that highlight Indigenous voices and traditions. Her efforts have not only garnered recognition but also served to uplift and engage the community in meaningful ways.

 

Sarah’s adept expertise in design, graphics, marketing, and event planning has played a pivotal role in advancing the museum's mission, even amidst resource constraints. Her strategic initiatives have led to widespread acknowledgment and praise, solidifying her role as a key advocate for Indigenous representation and education in the arts.

 

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