Tempe, Arizona (August 27, 2026) — aLocal.ai, the most awarded AI Market and Economic Impact software in the country since 2023, has been recognized again by the International Economic Development Council with its “Excellence in Economic Development” silver award for aLocal.ai’s research on the Michigan Non-Gaming Tribal Economic Impact Study.
“This year’s winners embody the spirit of innovation and excellence in economic development,” said International Economic Development Council 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.”
This research, funded by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and coordinated by Waséyabek, shows the powerful economic multipliers Native nations have not only for themselves, but for the entire regions that surround tribal communities.
The report, Michigan Non-Gaming Tribal Economic Impact Study, is available athttps://waseyabek.com/eis/.
This research was supported by many leaders including Governor Gretchen Whitmer who supported the role Native nations serve in shaping the future economy with her statement: “Tribal Nations and Tribal businesses are economic anchors of the community that create and support thousands of good-paying jobs and drive billions of dollars in commerce.”
Waséyabek Chief Executive Officer Deidra Mitchell stated, “This statewide effort brought together all 12 federally recognized Tribes in Michigan to document and elevate the contributions of Tribal non-gaming enterprises to the state’s economy. This project has twice moved from planning to implementation, creating a repeatable, data-driven model for collaboration between Tribal Nations and public-sector partners—one grounded in sovereignty, accountability, and community priorities. Thank you to Jessi Goldner, VP of Strategic Engagement and Heather TePastte, Strategic Engagement Project Manager for driving the project forward.”
Tom Durkee, Director of Tribal Business Development at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation helped fund the first study, also coordinated by Waséyabek with Eric S. Trevan, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of aLocal.ai, and Jon Panamaroff, Chief Executive Officer of Command Holdings providing the analysis. “As we look to the future, tribal business development remains a vital component of our Make It in Michigan economic development strategy,” Durkee stated. “By leveraging unique cultural assets and pursuing strategic economic opportunities, tribal nations are well-positioned to diversify their economies, generate sustainable revenue beyond gaming and create quality jobs that strengthen communities across Michigan.”
With the final research finding the net benefits with dynamic multipliers that adjust to different geographies, as opposed to stagnant county multipliers, the true impact shows how Native nations share borders with the State of Michigan and drive economic opportunity for everyone.
Trevan summarized “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. Native nations are in a great position to drive a sovereign economic revolution improving the quality of life for everyone.”
Other members of the aLocal.ai research team include Haley Mustafa, M.S. Vice President of Planning, GIS, and Economic Development Research, as well as Jesse Downs, MPA, former aLocal.ai Chief Operating Officer and currently the Chief Executive Officer of Cowlitz Economic Authority.