Located approximately 90 minutes north of Minnesota’s bustling metropolitan hub, a huge initiative is underway in Onamia. Headed by the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe’s business arm, Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures, this pioneering endeavor marks the state’s inaugural foray into cannabis cultivation on sovereign land.
The construction has commenced behind the Grand Casino Mille Lacs. With the establishment of the state’s first full-scale cannabis cultivation facility, the tribe is poised to make significant progress.
For Chief Executive of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, the decision to embark on this venture is driven by a steadfast commitment. The commitment mainly highlights economic growth and prosperity for the tribe’s members. Benjamin emphasizes that this initiative is not merely a business endeavor. It also serves as a strategic move to diversify the tribe’s economic portfolio and create sustainable job opportunities within the community.
Furthermore, the cultivation facility, spanning an impressive 50,000 square feet, promises to yield approximately 1,600 pounds of cannabis per month. Beyond the production quotas, Benjamin underscores the broader significance of the project in providing employment avenues for members of the Band of Ojibwe. This inclusive approach aims to engage individuals eager to learn and contribute to the burgeoning cannabis industry. It is fostering a sense of empowerment and economic autonomy within the community.
As the largest cannabis development on tribal land in Minnesota, this initiative positions sovereign nations as trailblazers in the state’s evolving cannabis landscape. With the full support of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, this venture represents a bold step forward in navigating the complexities of the burgeoning cannabis market. It is setting a precedent for future endeavors within the industry.
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A shared vision: Collaboration with the state of Minnesota
Despite operating on sovereign land, the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe recognizes the importance of collaboration with the state of Minnesota. Benjamin highlights the cooperative spirit underlying the project. He emphasized the mutual interest in delivering a high-quality product that reflects positively on both the tribe and the state. This collaborative approach underscores a shared commitment to upholding industry standards and regulatory compliance while fostering a thriving cannabis ecosystem.
Additionally, Benjamin stressed the importance of adhering to stringent standards of excellence. They ensure that the cannabis cultivated on tribal land meets the highest industry benchmarks. This dedication to quality not only reflects the tribe’s values but also displays a commitment to delivering a premium product.
The economic impact of the cultivation facility extends beyond revenue generation. Profits generated from cannabis cultivation will be strategically reinvested into the tribe to support various government programs for its members. This cyclical approach to economic development underscores a commitment to holistic community welfare. It leverages the success of the cannabis enterprise to bolster essential services and initiatives within the tribe.
While the focus remains on cultivation for now, the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe remains open to exploring retail opportunities in the future. The tribe poised to leverage their expertise and resources to expand its presence in the cannabis market. Additionally, they are exploring avenues for retail distribution and consumer engagement.
Moreover, the completion of the cultivation facility expected by the fall primes the tribe to embark on a new chapter of economic growth and prosperity. This is signaling a promising future for cannabis entrepreneurship within the community.
zartasha@mugglehead.com
