Spiel-Yi Learning Center Brings Quality Childcare to Yakama Nation

Spiel-Yi Learning Center opened in August 2024, filling a critical need for quality childcare in the White Swan, Harrah, and Brownstown areas. The Native-owned preschool operates under dual licensing with both the Yakama Nation's Child Care and Development Fund and Washington State's Department of Children, Youth, and Families.  

A loan from Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Economic Development Corporation (ATNI-EDC) and Craft3 enabled owner Joel D. John to build essential infrastructure including a parking lot, front and back sidewalks, and a 16’x40’ addition with additional restrooms. The financing also provided six months of operational funding to cover payroll and taxes.

Joel, a Yakama Nation Tribal member and lifelong White Swan resident, brought deep business experience to the venture. He has managed Yakamart, a gas station and convenience store, for the past 8 years. Joel explains, “I also have about 8 years of gaming experience with gaming regulatory. And I have prepared taxes for individuals for 13 years. So, while I don’t have experience in early care and education, I am experienced managing personnel and complying with oversite and rules.” For Craft3, relevant business experience is always a huge plus.   

Joel worked with ATNI-EDC, with Craft3 participating as a lending partner. This lending partnership created two benefits: it allowed government funds to be leveraged and mitigated risk for both funding entities. Joel explains:

“My lender assisted me in every part of the application, helping me address any concerns as they arose, preparing the application and providing summaries of my business plan and my biography."

Like many entrepreneurs, Joel faced uncertainty during the startup phase. "I had some doubts and uncertainties about how the funding would flow," he admits. "For a good chunk of time I was utilizing my own personal money to fund payroll and taxes." His advice to other Tribal entrepreneurs is this:

“I encourage you to never settle. Don’t give up easily. Resources and assistance are available."