Choctaw Nation
Charlie Clark
DURANT –The Choctaw Nation again served as host to the annual Choctaw Business Summit and the Preferred Supplier Program Fair Thursday, June 20 and Friday, June 21 at Choctaw Casino & Resort. An estimated 500 business owners, potential new clients and tribal representatives were in attendance over the two days of activities.
“Every booth space is taken,” said Boyd Miller, Preferred Supplier Program commodity manager, Choctaw Nation Procurement Department. The 70 exhibitors spilled out of the main floor into the hall entry.
On June 20, the Small Business Development and Partner Appreciation Dinner allowed participants to network and be recognized. Award winners announced at the banquet included a Choctaw business entrepreneur from each of the 12 districts of the Choctaw Nation. Overall “Chahtapreneur of the Year” was from District 7, Wayne Tipps with Antlers-based Sacred Grounds Coffeehouse and Tipps Electrical Services.
“Our mission is to provide an opportunity for growth and prosperity,” Chief Gary Batton said at the opening ceremony of the fair. “This is our fourth year for preferred vendors to be able to help you be aware of what contracts are available, how you can deal with those and how to get your services to the Choctaw Nation and to other tribes, as well, throughout the country. We can help you grow, sustain your business and hopefully employ more tribal members.”
To learn more about the Choctaw Nation Preferred Supplier Program, contact Boyd Miller at 580-924-8280, ext. 2899 orbmiller@choctawnation.com.