Chief Strategy Officer

Joseph S. Nayquonabe, Jr. is a transformative leader with over a decade of experience driving strategic business growth and community development. As former CEO of Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures, he successfully led a $600 million portfolio spanning gaming, hospitality, cannabis, entertainment, and government contracting businesses.

Key achievements include:

• Transforming a casino operation with a $180 million modernization
• Creating a multi-million dollar government contracting company
• Developing $80 million in workforce housing projects
• Pioneering innovative approaches in emerging industries like cannabis
• Leading organizational culture transformation toward collaborative, service-first models

Joseph brings deep expertise in strategic vision, economic development, and mission-driven leadership. Named “Most Admired CEO” and recognized with multiple leadership awards, he has a proven track record of building sustainable businesses while prioritizing community impact.

With master’s degrees in Tribal Administration and Business Administration, Joseph is passionate about creating economic opportunities that empower communities and drive meaningful change.