History

Harnessing Technology to Empower Tribal Nations

Twenty-five years ago, tribal gaming was just beginning to develop across the nation. Tribes were working to use this newly emerging opportunity to offer casino gaming as a means to build their communities with the end goal of becoming a self-sufficient tribal nation. In order to reach this goal, they looked to understand the potential of using technology to enhance their operations.

At this same time, a group of local tribal technology professionals in Northern Michigan, led by Michael Day, the then MIS Director of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, brought together fellow area technology leaders along with a handful of solution providers to discuss common challenges, common technology solutions, and to foster a collaborative network that would serve to educate other tribal technology leaders and continue to grow innovation within tribal governments and enterprises.

From Humble Beginnings to a Trusted Hub

This was the beginning, culminating in 1999 with planning and hosting the very first TribalNet Conference held in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan in 2000.

From that humble beginning, TribalHub has grown into a membership organization dedicated to building tribal organizations by fostering transparent communication, facilitating partnerships, and providing resources to educate and give tribes the tools they need to succeed for the thousands that attend TribalHub and TribalNet events today.

Through the annual TribalNet conferences to TribalHub workshops, membership, and online forums, TribalHub has become a trusted space where tribal leaders and technology providers can exchange ideas, share insights, and address common challenges.