Chippewa Cree Tribe Case Study
Serving Our Citizens Through Sovereign InnovationAbout the Chippewa Cree Tribe
The Chippewa Cree Tribe of Montana is a federally recognized Tribal Nation with approximately 7,000 enrolled citizens. Home to the Rocky Boy’s Reservation in north-central Montana, the Tribe stands resilient in the face of persistent economic challenges.
Despite the strength and determination of its people, the community continues to navigate significant barriers—such as high unemployment, limited access to essential services, and scarce economic opportunities. Unlike some Tribal Nations that have benefited from the gaming industry, the remote location of the Rocky Boy’s Reservation has made it difficult to attract gaming-related development or tourism-driven revenue.
According to the Montana Legislative Services Division’s 2018 report, the poverty rate on the Rocky Boy’s Reservation remains among the highest in the state at 37.9%—underscoring the urgent need for diversified, innovative economic solutions that honor Tribal sovereignty and create sustainable opportunities for future generations.
Advancing Tribal Development Through Sovereign Digital Enterprise
In 2011, the Chippewa Cree Tribe took a bold step toward self-determined economic growth by launching Plain Green, LLC, a sovereign Tribal financial services enterprise that marked the Tribe’s entry into the digital commerce space.
Through this sovereign enterprise, the Tribe has generated meaningful opportunities—creating jobs, expanding essential Tribal services, and fueling development that uplifts the entire community. The impact has been far-reaching, offering a pathway toward sustained economic advancement and reaffirming the Tribe’s capacity to shape its own future. The full potential of this initiative continues to unfold, positioning the Chippewa Cree as a national example of innovation in Tribally-led digital enterprise.
Tribally-Led Digital Financial Initiatives
Budget
In addition to Grants, Contracts and Compact Funding, Plain Green’s monthly distribution to the Tribe bolsters the annual Tribal Budget.
Employment
Plain Green currently employs 114 individuals—85 of whom work on the Rocky Boy Reservation, including 79 enrolled Tribal members. In addition, the company invests in the next generation by offering summer internships to tribally enrolled college students, creating pathways for youth engagement and professional development.
Infrastructure
Plain Green has funded renovations to a community-accessible daycare playground, enhancing safe spaces for local children. The company also contributes financial support toward the development of the new Chippewa Cree Health Center, reinforcing its commitment to the well-being of the Tribe.
Education
Each year, Plain Green supports education at every level by providing scholarships, winter coats, and backpacks to students in two K–12 school districts, as well as to those attending Stone Child College, the local Tribal college.
Social Services
Plain Green actively invests in the well-being of the Chippewa Cree community by supporting Tribal eldercare services, enhancing public safety through contributions to Tribal law enforcement and fire departments, and helping preserve cultural heritage by sponsoring traditional Tribal events.
Tribal Services
Plain Green partners with the local Tribal college to offer Call Center Training programs, helping build workforce skills within the community. The company has also stepped up in times of need—providing potable water and firewood during local emergencies to support Tribal citizens.
Internet Commerce & the Future
The Chippewa Cree Tribe’s sovereign digital enterprise efforts go far beyond meeting essential government needs—they represent a powerful opportunity to pursue long-term economic prosperity. These initiatives are helping the Tribe shift from survival to self-determined success, creating meaningful employment pathways that foster financial stability, personal pride, and a stronger future for Chippewa Cree families.
