Native American Economic Development

At Dickinson Wright, effective legal counsel requires not only a comprehensive understanding of the law, but also a thorough understanding of our clients’ businesses, industries, and technologies. As a full-service law firm, we take a whole-of-firm approach to Native American economic development, drawing on the experience of lawyers across the firm to provide coordinated legal services.

From general business counsel and financing to contract negotiations, grants, and mergers and acquisitions, our lawyers work closely with clients to support their objectives.

Our services include:

Emerging Businesses

Dickinson Wright understands the needs and challenges facing emerging Native American businesses. Our corporate lawyers have helped hundreds of startups across numerous industries position themselves for growth while avoiding legal pitfalls. We provide practical, cost-effective advice on matters ranging from entity selection and business formation to venture capital and exit transactions. Whether clients are starting a new business, acquiring an existing company, or scaling their operations, our emerging business team provides accessible counsel tailored to their objectives.

Corporate Law

A company’s long-term success depends on its ability to adapt and grow while maintaining financial stability. Dickinson Wright advises Native American entrepreneurs, startups, emerging growth companies, and established businesses on matters ranging from interstate and cross-border transactions to corporate governance, risk management, financing, and growth opportunities. We provide legal counsel through every stage of the business cycle.

Mergers & Acquisitions

Native American businesses pursuing growth through mergers and acquisitions benefit from experienced legal counsel that can help manage the risks associated with these transactions. Dickinson Wright represents buyers and sellers across a broad range of industries, working closely with senior management and in-house counsel to structure transactions that protect client interests and support business objectives.

From transaction planning and due diligence through tax structuring, negotiation, closing, and post-closing integration, our mergers and acquisitions team advises clients throughout the M&A process.

Economic Development

We represent Native American clients in economic development transactions involving gaming, energy, water resources, and other commercial opportunities. Our team helps clients structure projects that comply with applicable laws and regulations while maintaining their economic and financial integrity. Our work includes:

• Negotiating and documenting tribal casino financing
• Securing federal and state approvals
• Advocating for tribal interests and protecting tribal sovereignty
• Developing, procuring, and protecting energy resources
• Acquiring and managing water resources and protecting Native American water rights
• Negotiating agreements with developers and vendors
• Advising on state and federal tax issues affecting Native American tribes, individuals, and lands
• Negotiating tribal-state gaming compacts and tribal-municipal casino development agreements
• Assisting commercial casino developers with gaming licenses, constitutional amendments, and gaming legislation

Litigation & Dispute Resolution

When disputes cannot be resolved through negotiation, our litigators represent clients in administrative proceedings and tribal, state, and federal courts. We handle matters ranging from individual disputes to complex multidistrict and multiparty litigation, with a focus on protecting client interests and managing resources efficiently. We also appear before legislative bodies on behalf of Native American clients, work with government officials to secure required approvals, and help clients maintain regulatory compliance.