Forest County Potawatomi Tribal Members Complete Tribal Business & Economic Development Education Series

The economic future of the Forest County Potawatomi Community is strong—and growing. As part of Potawatomi Ventures’ long-term strategic planning, tribal members were invited to participate in the Tribal Business & Economic Development Education Series to help shape the next generation of opportunity for Potawatomi Ventures. This spring, tribal members took part in a comprehensive assessment and long-term planning initiative that will help guide how Potawatomi Ventures invests, grows, and creates prosperity for generations to come. 

This initiative is part of a long-term, intergenerational vision to strengthen our Tribe’s economic foundation and ensure our businesses reflect our shared values. The program was led by Kip Ritchie, Potawatomi Ventures CEO; Crystal Deschinny, Potawatomi Ventures Board Chair; Ryan Dyer, Potawatomi Ventures Board Member; and Tribal Financial Advisors, a leading investment consultant in Indian Country. 

The cohort brought together tribal members from diverse backgrounds who share an interest in economic development, tribal governance and policy, leadership, and cultural preservation. 

“I enjoyed being able to learn from our leadership team. Their unwavering desire to help educate tribal membership on economic development is inspiring. I continue to remain optimistic about the future of Potawatomi Ventures and thought the cohort was great exposure to understanding the portfolio,” said Chelsie Bath, Potawatomi Ventures HR Business Partner, enrolled Forest County Potawatomi tribal member. 

Tribal members completed the program in June 2026 with a graduation ceremony at Potawatomi Casino Hotel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 

“Completing the Tribal Business & Economic Development Education Series was more than a milestone, it was a heartfelt reminder of who we are, who we serve, and the future we carry forward together,” said Heather VanZile, Potawatomi Ventures Tribal Relations Director, enrolled Forest County Potawatomi tribal member.