Economic Development Program

To support the ongoing success and sustainability of the Tribal economy, operations for Economic Development were integrated as a program within the Tribal Lands Department in 2025.  The department has a successful history in developing and managing large projects in support of Economic Development (EcDev) operations.  With Tribal Council’s vision to improve efficiencies, better align with the Tribe’s economy, and increase effectiveness of operations, the department was selected to fulfill these goals while developing a sustainable program capable of meeting the Tribe’s needs and supporting its economy. 

The program objectives are to (1) exercise CTGR sovereignty by identifying, analyzing and providing recommendations for economic development related projects, and to (2) coordinate with departments and programs to fully vet potential projects and related impacts to Tribal operations and finances. In support of these objectives, EcDev seeks opportunities through outreach and networking; completes research to determine feasibility and profitability; performs opportunity assessments identifying viability, risks and benefits; and EcDev provides support and management for economic development related projects.

The Tribe’s varied financial resources fund EcDev projects, including pursuing grant funding. Additionally, we are working with Finance to expand the funding process that minimizes risk and matches the project to the funding source requirements.  This also means having well thought out strategies in case the investment doesn’t perform as projected.

Every opportunity presented to EcDev is assessed for its potential.  This opportunity assessment is a multistep process beginning with an evaluation to determine the viability that includes projected return on investment, alignment with Tribal objectives, funding source requirements, and economic development strategies.  Opportunities that are determined to be viable are then presented to the Economic Development Advisory Committee (comprised of executive team members and staff) for review and concurrence before being presented to Tribal Council for authorization to start the project.  

As the EcDev team facilitates three primary areas of focus which consist of opportunity assessments, current projects and initiatives, and continued program development, we are preparing to launch development of a Sustainable Economic Development Strategy (SEDS) for the Tribe that will provide a pathway for long term economic success.  This multi-year project will include direct input from Tribal Members, economic analyses, surveys, community events, interdepartmental coordination, external agency consultation, Tribal Council approval, and result in a presentation of the SEDS to the general membership.