The American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Arizona said its recent Connect 2016 conference and trade show, which included a business awards program, drew record crowds in celebration of the chamber's 20th anniversary.

The conference in Scottsdale provided a showcase for Native American entrepreneurs and business owners and featured panelists discussing their experiences starting a business and staying in business.

Kim Kanuho with Fourth World Design Group served as moderator for one of the early panel discussion.

Valerie Churchwell, outreach manager for the city of Phoenix Aviation Department; Patti Pyle, manager of the Supplier Diversity Program for Salt River Project; and Jesus Borboa, supplier diversity program manager for Arizona Public Service discussed how small businesses can become vendors within their programs at another morning panel discussion that focused on opportunities for small businesses.

Six businesses and organizations were honored during the 6th annual American Indian Chamber Business Awards Program. Businesses and organizations receiving awards included Outdoor Systems Management, Quail Run Building Materials, Casino Arizona/Talking Stick Resort, Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, University of Arizona Tribal Relations and Continuum Staffing.

The special event closed with a session on financing small businesses and a session titled Women Business Owners Inspiring Success.