Indigenous Biz Con (IBC) returns to Milwaukee this month to bring Wisconsin’s Native American business community together.
This year’s theme will be “Revitalizing traditions, Driving innovation,” with opportunities for Indigenous business owners to access education, resources and community across its two days. The convection aims to break down barriers and foster community and economic growth. Industries covered stem from energy, real estate, media, cannabis and traditional industries like manufacturing, retail, agriculture and many others.
“This is the conference where deals get closed,” Rob Pero, Indigenous Business Group Co-founder and member of the Bad River Band of the Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians, said in a statement. “Our goal with Indigenous Biz Con is to build community and provide a space to create meaningful relationships and elevate Native voices. It is a dynamic gathering of leaders and creative thinkers in the business space coming together to share technical assistance, impactful development resources, and meaningful connections.”
Indigenous Biz Con kicks off Oct. 14, which falls on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, with programming from Wisconsin Indigenous Housing and Economic Development Corporation (WIHEDC). The Small Business Administration and representatives from BMO Harris Bank will follow to speak on business financing. The IBC will give its opening address after.
Day one will be filled largely with panel discussions. Day two will feature special guest speakers Sean Sherman, listed on Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2023, three James Beard award-winning chef, cookbook author, forager, and promoter of Indigenous cuisine; Jhane Myers, film producer of “Prey” and the upcoming film “The 7th”; and Cara Jade Myers, who played Anna Brown in “Killer of the Flower Moon.”
A full agenda for Oct. 14-15 can be found on IBC’s website.
Indigenous Biz Con will be held Oct. 14-15 at the Potawatomi Hotel and Casino, 1721 W. Canal St., Milwaukee. Paid registration is required to attend.
