The good news: tribal colleges help develop Indian economies and cultures. The bad news: they face a chronic funding crisis.

While economic conditions have improved for American Indians living on reservations, poverty remains prevalent, and tribes face deep challenges in their efforts to develop.

Casinos are a major source of new wealth for many Indian tribes in the Ninth District and both Indians and non-Indians seek the profits they yield. But too little discussion of late has focused on their true costs and benefits.

Small business development holds great promise for American Indian economic progress, but big obstacles remain.

Small businesses and tribal colleges offer fresh hope in Indian country. They also face great hurdles.

Many believe American Indian tribes are swimming in cash, thanks to their casinos. In fact, very few tribes have really hit the jackpot.