From Staff Reports
The Cheyenne and Arapaho Business Development Corporation has been established in Oklahoma, and bison meat is to be produced and promoted, the corporation has announced.
The corporation formed with new companies, will generate economic growth and bring much-needed products and services to tribal communities and beyond, a news release from the corporation states.
The Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes is based in Concho.
The Oklahoma-based, for-profit corporation will operate as a holding company for several subsidiary companies in various industries, including bison meat production and construction work, serving consumers in-state and throughout the United States.
The company plans to provide specialized products and services and create jobs that enrich tribal communities in addition to the state of Oklahoma.
“The purpose of the Business Development Corporation is to cultivate and provide high-quality products and services to the people we serve as well as new economic opportunities for our tribal communities,” said Ty Todd, CEO of the corporation.
Currently, planned subsidiaries operating under the tribal corporation include Black Prairie Bison, a bison production company, and Hammerstone Construction, a commercial construction group.
Black Prairie Bison will raise and sell premium bison meat products direct-to-consumer online as well as to grocery consumers, restaurants, and retailers.
Hammerstone Construction will provide general contracting services, construction management and more.
“This company is investing in the long-term future of our tribes, the state of Oklahoma and our communities,” Todd said.
While the corporation is not directly affiliated with the tribal government, most members of their leadership team and board of directors are tribal members, the release states
In addition to the disclosed brands, the corporation plans to launch additional ventures by the end of the year.
