As we bid farewell to 2023, it is with great pride that we reflect upon the accomplishments we have made in the past twelve months. We have navigated challenges and embraced opportunities, emerging stronger and more resilient than ever. From new product launches to strategic collaborations, and a commitment to supporting Indigenous business, the efforts of all our team members led to growth and learning in 2023. As we celebrate the achievements of this year, we look forward to the new year with enthusiasm. As always, thank you to all our loyal customers, who we could not do any of this without! We look forward to working with you more in 2024!
With the help of loyal customers and supporters we accomplished the following this year:
Welcomed a new team member
In 2023, our business marked a pivotal milestone with the addition of Rachel Walters as our Social Media Coordinator. Rachel has seamlessly integrated into our team, assuming the role of social media coordinator for multiple facets of our enterprise, including SweetGrass Trading Company, Pony Express gas stations and convenience stores, Tribal Tea Company, and Sweetwater Café. She diligently prepares engaging and impactful social media content, while fostering meaningful interactions with our diverse customer base and followers daily. Rachel’s passion, creativity, and commitment have undeniably elevated our online presence, contributing significantly to the positive perception and growth of our brands.
Attended the Reservation Economic Summit conference
Five dedicated employees from SweetGrass embarked on a transformative journey this year by participating in the Reservation Economic Summit (RES) held in Las Vegas. Sponsored by The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development (NCAIED), this summit served as a platform for our team to engage with business leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts across Indian Country. Notably, SweetGrass, along with several subsidiaries of Ho-Chunk, Inc., actively showcased their endeavors at the Ho-Chunk Pavilion within the conference’s exhibitor hall. SweetGrass Trading employees offered samples of Tribal Tea, while fostering connections with potential vendors, customers, and partners.
Onboarded three new vendors
Our commitment providing an array of Native American food, gift, and wellness items remains unwavering. In 2023, we announced the addition of three new vendors, bringing forth an exciting variety of new products to our collection. New items included: Bison Star Naturals sage and pine lotion, Pemmican Patty bison bars and the book “Braiding SweetGrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer.
Attended the World Tea Expo
In 2023, our director, Adam Bowen, played a pivotal role in representing our brand at the prestigious World Tea Expo held in Las Vegas. Recognized as one of the largest congregations globally for retailers, tea shop proprietors, grocers, and various business professionals, the expo provided an unparalleled platform for networking and showcasing innovative products. Adam showcased our recently launched line of herbal teas from Tribal Tea Company. Actively engaging with attendees, he offered samples that not only demonstrated the quality and uniqueness of our products but also fostered connections with industry leaders.
Awarded a $1,250 scholarship to a Native college student
This year we awarded $1,250 to Major Elliot, a Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head member and college student majoring in biology at Georgetown University. Elliott’s goal is to become a cardiothoracic surgeon and give back to the Native American community. Ho-Chunk Trading Group awards up to $1,250 to one student each year to a successful applicant to help them finance their education in a 4-year college, 2-year community or technical college.