Revitalizing a Tribal Economy through Cultural Connection

Sicangu Co (formerly known as Rosebud Economic Development) in South Dakota has taken steps to leverage the reservation’s wealth of resources, in both people and land, and to center Lakota culture and values in all aspects of economic development. The challenges to the area are numerous, including low income, a lack of services and amenities, such as sit-down restaurants and mechanics, all of which would be major sources of revenue. Sicangu Co is working to reverse those trends by creating new jobs and promoting economic opportunity through a partnership with the U.S. Economic Development Administration. This paper provides the road map being used.