Previous Events

This presentation, presented by Coach Jim Stroker, explores how perspective and response shape effective leadership and outcomes. Grounded in first principles, it integrates the E+R=O framework—emphasizing that while events are uncontrollable, responses drive results. Drawing on lessons like the Boeing checklist, Jimmy Carter’s leadership, and marginal gains, it highlights discipline, teamwork, and intentional planning. Guided by beginning with the end in mind, it reinforces that priorities only matter when they are clearly defined, owned, and consistently scheduled.

Federal and regulatory shifts in 2026 are reshaping the economic environment for Tribal Nations. Hear what new IRS and Treasury rules, evolving budgets, and upcoming legislation mean for sovereignty, taxation, business structure, and long-term economic planning. As part of that broader picture, we’ll also discuss how treaties, jurisdiction, and trade authority fit into this changing landscape—offering practical insight into emerging opportunities, potential challenges, and what Tribes can do now to stay ahead of what’s coming.

As tribes pursue more complex economic projects in 2026, feasibility studies are essential decision tools. Independent, third-party analyses help Tribal governments evaluate market demand, financial risk, technical feasibility, and long-term sustainability. With increased expectations from lenders and federal programs, these studies protect Tribal resources, support sovereignty-based decision-making, and give leaders the clarity to confidently move forward—or walk away.

This session looks at how Tribal Nations can move forward confidently even as funding landscapes and political environments keep shifting. We’ll talk about practical ways to secure capital—whether through Tribal loan funds, NMTCs, tax‑exempt financing, or strong partnerships—and how to use those tools to build businesses that create steady, reliable revenue. The focus is on structuring deals that protect Tribal interests, strengthening governance so plans don’t change with every election, and building economic engines that support communities no matter what’s happening in Washington.

This roundtable brings Tribal leaders together to connect the conference’s core themes, including broadband expansion, renewable energy, non-gaming development, AI adoption, feasibility-driven planning, and project delivery. Participants will share lessons learned, discuss challenges such as funding uncertainty, workforce needs, and regulatory hurdles, and explore how these strategies align to build resilient, diversified Tribal economies grounded in sovereignty, culture, and long-term community priorities.

Tribal Nations are undertaking more construction and development projects than ever, from hotels and housing to broadband and community facilities. Successful delivery requires strong planning, trusted partners, and effective oversight. This discussion focuses on moving projects from concept to completion, managing contractors, controlling budgets and schedules, avoiding common pitfalls, and ensuring developments align with community needs and long-term Tribal priorities.

Broadband is essential infrastructure for Tribal Nations, supporting education, telehealth, economic development, and digital sovereignty. In 2026, reforms to the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program are streamlining funding and opening more than $500 million in new opportunities. This discussion provides a practical overview of program changes, upcoming consultations, workforce training efforts, and strategies for planning, funding, and sustaining tribally driven broadband networks across Indian Country.

Tribal Nations are strengthening sovereignty and economic resilience by reclaiming land management and rebuilding their food systems. This panel looks at how sustainable agriculture, Traditional Ecological Knowledge, and thoughtful land stewardship can create jobs, support cultural revitalization, and improve community health. Tribal leaders will hear practical approaches for developing stronger food economies and key policies shaping agriculture and land use in 2026.

Tribal Nations are increasingly pursuing renewable energy and microgrids to strengthen energy sovereignty, improve reliability, and reduce long-term costs. In 2026, shifting federal funding, evolving tax incentives, and market uncertainty are reshaping how these projects are planned and financed. This discussion addresses solar-plus-storage systems, community microgrids, funding challenges, and strategies for developing resilient energy solutions that support economic growth and self-determination.

Non-gaming amenities are increasingly critical to Tribal economic resilience in 2026. Hotels, restaurants, fuel operations, cultural attractions, and tourism developments generate stable revenue, attract new visitors, and create local jobs while reducing reliance on gaming. These investments keep more spending within the community and support long-term sovereignty. This discussion explores how expanding non-gaming offerings can help Tribal governments build diversified, sustainable economies.

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