Doing Business on Tribal Lands: It's Not That Complicated
About this Event
📅 Dates: September 24–25, 2026
📍 Location: The Convolo, downtown Sioux Falls
⏱ Program Length: Two days
👥 Audience: Tribal Leaders, Business Owners, Attorneys, Entrepreneurs, Economic Development Professionals, and Community Members
Event Description
Doing business on tribal lands is not as complicated as many believe—but it does require an understanding of tribal law, sovereignty, jurisdiction, and tribal governance.
This two-day program brings together experienced attorneys, judges, scholars, and tribal leaders to provide practical guidance on navigating legal, governmental, and commercial issues in Indian Country.
Registration Includes
Registration includes meals and program materials
Discounts are available on a first-come, first-served basis for those experiencing financial hardship. Please contact Sara Austin at [email protected] for more information.
This event is part of the Indian Country Private Sector Project, an initiative focused on strengthening tribal economies through private sector development, institutional capacity, and legal infrastructure.
Topics Include
• Federal Indian Law and tribal jurisdictions
• Tribal code development and economic governance
• Taxation in Indian Country
• AI in Indian Country: Energy, Entrepreneurship, and the Next Technology Opportunity
Photo & Recording Notice
The ACES School may take photos, video, and/or audio recordings during this event for educational, promotional, reporting, and nonprofit purposes. By attending, guests acknowledge that they may appear in event photos or recordings. If you prefer not to be photographed or recorded, please let event staff know when you arrive and we will make reasonable efforts to accommodate
September 24, 2026
🕑: 08:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Breakfast Buffet
🕑: 09:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Federal Indian Law & Tribal Jurisdiction
Host: Adam Crepelle
Info: Federal Indian law shapes the legal landscape in which tribes, businesses, and governments operate. This session provides an overview of tribal jurisdiction, sovereignty, and the overlapping tribal, federal, and state authorities that can affect business activity in Indian Country.
🕑: 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM
Building the Business Environment: Tribal Codes & Entrepreneurship
Host: Joseph Austin
Info: Tribal codes play an important role in shaping the environment in which businesses operate. This session explores how clear, practical laws and processes can support entrepreneurs, encourage business development, and create success for those looking to start, grow, or invest in businesses on tribal lands.
🕑: 12:15 PM - 01:15 PM
Lunch Buffet
🕑: 01:15 PM - 02:30 PM
Beyond Tribal Lands: E-Commerce Opportunities for Native Nations
Host: Tobin Beal
Info: Tribal businesses are not limited by geography. This session explores how e-commerce can expand markets, create new revenue opportunities, and help Native nations and entrepreneurs reach customers well beyond tribal lands.
🕑: 02:45 PM - 04:00 PM
Understanding the Complexities: A Conversation on Federal Indian Law, Taxation
Host: John Peebles
Info: A discussion based on Mr. Peebles’ experience, exploring how federal Indian law, taxation, and jurisdictional issues have played out in real cases and in federal courts.
🕑: 04:00 PM
Wrap-up Day 1
September 25, 2026
🕑: 08:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Breakfast Buffet
🕑: 09:00 AM - 10:15 AM
AI in Indian Country: Energy, Entrepreneurship & Technological Opportunities
Host: Ilia Murtazashvilli
Info: Emerging technologies are creating new opportunities for tribal nations, entrepreneurs, and businesses. This session explores AI, energy demands, and the economic opportunities surrounding new technology—and what Native nations should consider as these industries continue to grow.
🕑: 10:25 AM - 11:30 AM
Sovereignty & Prosperity: Building Opportunity Through the Private Sector
Host: Adam Crepelle
Info: A strong private sector can play an important role in creating lasting economic opportunity on tribal lands. This conversation will explore how tribal sovereignty can support an environment where businesses can grow, entrepreneurs can succeed, and communities can build greater economic independence. The panel will also consider what it takes to make doing business on tribal lands more accessible, practical, and sustainable over time.
🕑: 11:45 AM
Event Wrap-up and Lunch Buffet
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 55.20
