MPR: Tribes across the nation look to diversify their economy

Thursday, February 14, 2013  

"The economic growth of tribal nations and threats to Indian gambling revenues have propelled tribes around the country to expand beyond gaming in recent years.

The Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, for example, owns more than two dozen businesses — everything from construction and information technology firms to media companies that operate in several states and overseas. In 2011, the tribe reported $227 million in revenue.

In Wisconsin, the Potawatomi Business Development Corporation, a $60 million tribal holding company, started in 2003 with revenues from the Forest County Potawatomi Community's downtown Milwaukee casino.

The corporation owns businesses all over the country, said Kevin Allis, its chairman.

"You can't rely on one thing. It's never a safe bet to put all of your eggs in one basket," Allis said. "It's just not smart.""

Get the Story:
Mille Lacs hotel deal part of tribe diversification trend (Minnesota Public Radio 2/13)