Throughout FY 2000 a continued search for sound business prospects was conducted. Strong consideration is given to those business prospects that offer the best chances of profitability. A nine-year undertaking the Kenosha Casino Project remains the most highly coveted economic development venture to-date. The Office of Economic Development will espouse Menominee entrepreneurs owning the shops made available in the Kenosha Casino shopping complex. Our department continues to invite tribal sector business proposals, referral is made to the Economic Development Ad Hoc Task Force Committee for review.

The Office of Economic Development and the Menominee Tribal Enterprise have collaborated in a team-like approach to improve the value-added potential of the Menominee Tribal Enterprise. The Northwoods NiiJii Enterprise Community value-added benchmark stands ready to assist the revitalization effort both logistically and financially. Establishment of a workforce development program at the Menominee Tribal Enterprise will target the old planing mill for future remodeling. As described by MTE President Lawrence Waukau, improvement of value-added potential is a prime objective. Menominee interdepartmental and business entity team meetings will soon be conducted on a regular basis.

Ideally a marginal capital investment/high profit-return, low risk scenario is being considered as the safest business proposition. Properties on the Highway 29 Interstate transportation system have great potential for tribal business success. The Economic Development Ad Hoc Task Force Committee is presently reviewing a plan to develop a business featuring a hotel, convenience store, and truck stop. Using the "design-build" method the tribe remains interested in striking a deal with a prospective general contractor. Though only in the planning stage, a strip mall will be considered with possible development of a light-manufacturing center as an anchor within that general locale.

The Office of Economic Development continues to survey potential for US government HUB Zone development. The purchase of a company that has been in business for two years is an important prerequisite for 8(a) certification. Upon certification by SBA of a Menominee owned business concern the tribe can engage in contracting utilizing special government set-asides and incentives. The Office of Economic Development remains steadfast in its desire to acquire the most reliable business research available for review by the Menominee Economic Development Ad Hoc Committee, and legislature.