Indigenous Biz Con 2025 brought together Tribal leaders, business owners, and entrepreneurs from across the country to share ideas, resources, and strategies that drive Native economic growth. Hosted by Indigenous Business Group at Potawatomi Casino Hotel in Milwaukee, the annual conference continues to serve as a platform for learning, collaboration, and building partnerships that advance Tribal enterprise.
This year’s theme, “Rising Tides: Building Economies, Empowering Generations,” reflected the growing momentum of Indigenous nations taking the lead in shaping regional economies. Greenfire was proud to once again sponsor and participate alongside Potawatomi Ventures, highlighting both organizations shared mission of strengthening Tribal economic opportunity. As a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Forest County Potawatomi Community (FCPC), Greenfire’s involvement reinforces the company’s purpose to build both physical and economic foundations that benefit Tribal and partner communities alike.
The first night of the conference featured a “Light The Hoan” Bridge lighting ceremony in downtown Milwaukee, honoring Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Stirring words during the lighting ceremony were offered from Rob Pero, Indigenous Business Group co-founder, Brooks Boyd, Chairman, FCPC, and David Crowley, Milwaukee County Executive, who was also on hand to present an official proclamation for the day.
The two-day conference included powerful keynote speakers, cultural performances, and tribal artists and vendors. Biz Con brings together Tribal leaders, business representatives, and community members to celebrate the strength and resilience of Indigenous nations through shared economic empowerment.
A key session during the conference featured the panel discussion “Infrastructure Nation: Enterprises Helping Build Sustainable Communities,” moderated by Michael Moe, Business Development Manager at Greenfire and member of the Forest County Potawatomi Community. Panelists Bill Cornelius (Baker Tilly), Matt Kunstman (OESC Group), and Tasha Chevalier (Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin) discussed how Tribal enterprises are leading efforts to create regional infrastructure hubs that integrate construction, energy, logistics, and agriculture. The discussion centered on aligning infrastructure development with sovereignty, sustainability, and long-term economic growth through strategic public-private-Tribal partnerships.
For Greenfire, Indigenous Biz Con remains an important space to connect, share knowledge, and collaborate with other Native-owned enterprises dedicated to building a stronger economic future for generations to come.
