SHIPROCK, N.M. – On July 18, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren celebrated the grand opening of the Shiprock E-ship Hub, a brand-new space in the heart of Shiprock where local entrepreneurs, artists, and change makers can gather, get support, and grow their ideas into thriving businesses.
Located within the Tse’ Bit’ A’i Shopping Center Plaza, this new location is a space for entrepreneurs to strive in a business setting, according to the nonprofit Change Labs.
“Today is not just about the opening of the building, it’s about the beginning of something bold, something visionary,” said President Nygren. “It’s about unlocking the dreams of our people and fulfilling the future of Navajo entrepreneurs.”
Shiprock is a place full of strength, culture, and opportunity, so it was logical for Change Labs to open a second location here and in Tuba City, its original footprint bringing economic opportunities to Navajo and Hopi communities.
With Change Labs’ original launch in 2014, this hub has been a long time coming and has successfully secured a space where business occurs daily. Whether it’s within the Bashas shopping center or the flea market, there are growing opportunities to start or promote a business.
The architectural and design work of this space began in Summer 2024 with shared costs of over $100,000 with the Tuba City location. Additionally, the tenant improvement began in February 2025 and costed about $285,074, with the entire space measuring 2,000 square feet.
Prior to the grand opening celebration, a ‘Pitch Your Hustle’ event took place as an opportunity for pitch participants tell the audience about their vision of a business plan in seven minutes. A panel of judges awarded $ 25,000 in cash prizes to 10 participants.
“We’re here to support the small business community,” said Heather Fleming, Executive Director of Change Labs. “We have so much knowledge that we would love to share with entrepreneurs, with change makers and with artisans, our doors are open to you all.”
