College of Menominee Nation Signs MOA with WIEDC

College of Menominee Nation

News Release

KESHENA, WI- The College of Menominee Nation (CMN) and Wisconsin Indigenous Economic Development Corporation (WIEDC) signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA). The purpose of this agreement is for WIEDC and CMN to collaborate to meet the economic development needs of Native entrepreneurs in Wisconsin and provide opportunities for the students in CMN’s business administration program. The agreement is a yearly agreement between the two parties.

WIEDC will work with CMN faculty to mentor students in internships and career development, create a Native Business Hub that will serve all tribes in Wisconsin, and assist CMN business administration students in obtaining employment in Native owned businesses. CMN will provide a resource location to assist with local start up of microbusinesses, offer small business training, and collaborate with Tribal and surrounding communities.

Dean of Continuing Education, Brian Kowalkowski, stated, "The College of Menominee Nation is looking forward to this opportunity to work with the Wisconsin Indigenous Economic Development Corporation to provide resources and outreach to Native-owned businesses throughout the State of Wisconsin. The memorandum of agreement that has been executed between the two organizations emphasizes a strong relationship and a commitment to Native-owned businesses. The College aims to work toward Tribal communities that are successful and vibrant and this partnership will be key to building toward that goal."

The Chief Officer of WIEDC, Jennifer Peters, expressed her excitement about the agreement, “The Wisconsin Indigenous Economic Development Corporation is excited to partner with the College of Menominee Nation to bring the very first Native Business Hub to the Menominee Indian Tribe. Our goal is to bring Native Business Hubs to all 11 federally recognized tribes in Wisconsin by the end of 2023. Our business hubs are designed as a place that will offer resources, training and collaboration opportunities for our tribal communities, enterprises and native business owners. CMN has been extremely welcoming to the WIEDC family, and we look forward to a long-lasting partnership.”

Using this agreement as a model for future collaboration between Tribal communities and the College, CMN and WIEDC will strive to realize success within this partnership and beyond.