A statewide study documenting the economic contributions of Michigan’s Tribal Nations has received national recognition from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
aLocal.ai, an artificial intelligence-based economic and market research company, received the IEDC’s “Excellence in Economic Development” silver award for its research on the Michigan Non-Gaming Tribal Economic Impact Study.
The study was funded by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and coordinated by Waséyabek Development Company. It brought together Michigan’s 12 federally recognized Tribal Nations to examine the economic impact of Tribal non-gaming enterprises across the state.
“This year’s winners embody the spirit of innovation and excellence in economic development,” said IEDC President and Chief Executive Officer Nathan Ohle. “Once again, (aLocal’s) outstanding accomplishments have not only enhanced their own communities but also serve as shining examples of impactful and sustainable economic development worldwide.”
The research found that Tribal business enterprises generate significant economic activity not only within Tribal communities but throughout the regions surrounding them.
According to the study, Native business enterprises generated $1.24 billion in total economic impact, supported more than 4,000 jobs and contributed $135.9 million in tax revenue across Michigan.
Eric S. Trevan, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of aLocal.ai, said the findings demonstrate the broader economic role of Tribal Nations.
“The evidence is clear, Native business enterprises provided $1.24 billion in total economic impact, over 4,000 good paying jobs, and contributions of $135.9 million in tax revenue across Michigan,” Trevan said. “Native nations are in a great position to drive a sovereign economic revolution improving the quality of life for everyone.”
The study used dynamic economic multipliers that adjust to different geographic areas rather than relying on static county-level multipliers. The approach was intended to provide a more comprehensive picture of how Tribal businesses affect surrounding communities and the broader Michigan economy.
The research team also included Haley Mustafa, vice president of Planning, GIS, and Economic Development Research at aLocal.ai, and Jesse Downs, MPA, a former aLocal.ai chief operating officer who is now chief executive officer of Cowlitz Economic Authority.
The study is part of a broader effort to document the economic contributions of Tribal Nations beyond gaming and to provide data that can inform economic development partnerships between Tribal governments and public-sector institutions.
The Michigan Non-Gaming Tribal Economic Impact Study is available through Waséyabek.
The IEDC’s award is the ninth award for aLocal.ai since 2023.
Trevan attributes the awards as a stamp of approval for the innovative artificial intelligence tool his company developed and uses.
”Nobody else does what we are doing… as software goes. Others say they do it, but really now they’re contracting with us to do the work because we do it off our software,” Trevan said.
Trevan cites the software as cost effective; thereby, his company can save governments, developers, tribes and their tribal business enterprises money.
“The traditional model is essentially an upside-down pyramid: first, you identify a project; then you spend months and potentially six figures on feasibility studies, bidding and investment analysis; and finally, you find out whether the project makes sense,” Trevan said. “We’ve flipped that model. With aLocal.ai, we can push a button and, within seconds, see what’s in demand in any reservation, ZIP code, city or county. Instead of spending $100,000 and six to 12 months just determining whether an opportunity makes sense, you can get comprehensive market and economic impact analysis in seconds for a few thousand dollars.”
For Trevan, a tribal citizen of the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi, located in Bradley, Michigan, the Michigan tribal study was personal.
“I love projects that are intersectional. In Michigan, MEDC funded the study, and through our reputation and passion, we were able to bring all of the state’s Native Nations and stakeholders together for the Michigan Tribal Economic Impact Study. It’s very personal for me, both professionally and personally, to see that collaboration come together,” Trevan said.
Trevan is very passionate not only for Native businesses to work with other Native businesses, but to recognize when Native owned and operated entities are leaders in their industries. Stressing the key to strong Native economies is to support other nations who have their interest aligned with furthering Native economic sovereignty.
“We work hard to support Native economies and that includes Native owned businesses. As the most awarded AI market and economic analytics software in the country since 2023, we appreciate all Native nations who put their trust in our company. It’s too important now and supporting each other is critical to building our economic future…together!”
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