Tribes could be getting into munitions business

Guns, bullets, and other weaponry could someday be manufactured nearby.

The Colville Confederated Tribes are receiving a $50,000 grant from Washington state’s Community Economic Revitalization Board, matched by $16,667 from the tribe, to conduct a feasibility study to look into placing a munitions manufacturing plant on or near the reservation.

Tribal Business Council Chairman Andrew Joseph Jr said the tribes have not been in contact with any existing business in the pursuit of this project.

“The Tribes noticed a void in the local market for ammunition,” he said. “We thought it could be an opportunity.

Joseph noted advantages that exist for siting a manufacturing plant on the reservation.

“In general, there are many incentives to build on the reservation, such as access to new market tax credits, opportunity zones, Indian employment tax credits, accelerated depreciation, 8(a) contracting,” Joseph said. “In addition, the tribes have a large land base and access to power.”

The federal 8(a) Business Development Program under the Small Business Administration assists small, disadvantaged businesses that are owned and controlled at least 51% by “socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.”

The feasibility study, which should be done in August of this year, will tell the tribes how they might benefit from having a munitions manufacturing company and “will look at each community across the reservation and see which location will fit best,” he said. It will also say “what market, if any, would be best to start,” as far as what specific munitions to make, Joseph said.

Asked what department or individuals might be in charge of a munitions business, Joseph said “we have not made that decision yet; however, if it is decided to be a viable proposal, this would most likely be a stand-alone” limited liability corporation.