Wisconsin Tribes Empowering Tribal Entrepreneurs with State Grant

Wisconsin tribes are taking bold steps to strengthen economic sovereignty through a new initiative that establishes small business hubs across the state. Backed by a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Administration’s Diverse Business Assistance program, each of Wisconsin’s 11 federally recognized tribes are eligible to receive $90,000 to build entrepreneurial capacity and support Native-owned businesses. Six tribes on the panel received the $90,000 grant.  

At the forefront of this movement is Potawatomi Ventures, leading efforts to create culturally grounded spaces for innovation and entrepreneurship. During a recent panel at the Wisconsin Indigenous Housing & Economic Development Corp. (WIHEDC) conference, Alexis Harris, Director of the Innovation Center at Potawatomi Ventures, shared the organization’s vision for empowering Native entrepreneurs.  

“Our vision is to invite Indigenous innovators into a community of resources, mentorship, and cultural grounding to help entrepreneurs take the next step,” Harris explained.  

This initiative addresses long-standing challenges faced by Native entrepreneurs, including limited access to dedicated business spaces and support networks. By creating hubs tailored to each tribe’s unique needs, WIHEDC and its partners aim to strengthen tribal economies and promote self-sufficiency.