Milwaukee, WI (October 17, 2025) – The Indian Gaming Association (IGA) continues to advance the vision and responsibilities established by the late Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr., reaffirming its dedication to tribal sovereignty, economic self-determination, and unity throughout Indian Country.
Under the leadership of Acting Chairman David Bean, IGA took part in the Indigenous Biz Con held October 13–14 at Potawatomi Casino Hotel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin’s largest gathering for Indigenous business and entrepreneurship.
The conference, now in its fourth year, brought together hundreds of tribal leaders, Native entrepreneurs, and industry professionals from across the country to explore opportunities in gaming, cannabis, energy, and emerging markets in Indian Country.
“Chairman Stevens built his life’s work around unity, sovereignty, and the idea that when tribes stand together, we can shape our own future,” said Acting Chairman David Bean. “The path he charted through Indian gaming laid the foundation for our success as sovereign governments. It’s our responsibility now to carry that vision forward, not just in gaming, but in new industries that can strengthen our nations and create opportunity for our people.”
The Indian Gaming Association’s presence at Indigenous Biz Con highlighted the growing intersection between tribal gaming and cannabis, emphasizing both industries as sovereign-driven, tribally regulated, and rooted in community benefit.
“Indian gaming proved what’s possible when tribes take the lead in regulation and economic innovation,” Bean continued. “The cannabis industry presents another opportunity to expand that success, creating jobs, funding healthcare and youth programs, and promoting true economic diversification. But we must ensure that tribes, not outside corporations or state governments, define the rules and reap the rewards.”
Chairman Stevens often reminded tribal leaders that sovereignty is strengthened through education, partnership, and relationship-building. Acting Chairman Bean reinforced that message during the luncheon, emphasizing continued collaboration between the gaming and cannabis sectors to ensure both are developed responsibly and in alignment with tribal values.
“The same unity that built a $49 billion Indian gaming industry can guide how Indian Country approaches the cannabis industry,” Bean said. “This is not about asking for permission, it’s about building partnerships grounded in respect for our sovereign rights.”
As the organization expands its outreach and advocacy efforts, including upcoming visits to tribal communities and participation in national forums, the Indian Gaming Association remains dedicated to advancing the priorities established by Chairman Stevens and tribal leaders outlined in the IGA mission: protecting tribal sovereignty, educating Congress and policymakers, and supporting tribal economic growth through unity and self-determination.
“Chairman Stevens’ legacy lives on in the work we continue to do,” Bean concluded. “He believed that economic sovereignty is the key to protecting our culture, building our future, and lifting all tribes. That work is not finished, it’s moving forward, stronger than ever.”