Stone Lake, WI, May 27, 2026 — Potawatomi Ventures announced today the completion of its Wisconsin Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (WEVI) grant-funded DC fast charging hub. Funded through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Grant Program administered by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, the initiative is part of a nationwide effort to build a reliable, accessible network of electric vehicle (EV) chargers along key transportation corridors. This installation marks an historic milestone as the first Native American tribe in the United States to receive and implement a NEVI grant for a project on trust land.
Located at Fireside Market-Stone Lake, in Crandon, Wisconsin on Highway 8, the one-of-a-kind site features DC fast charging. The Federal Highway Administration has designed the corridor on Highway 8 as an Alternate Fuel Corridor (AFC) to support installation of EV charging, hydrogen, propane, and natural gas fueling infrastructure at strategic locations. This installation not only provides critical infrastructure for EV drivers traveling through Forest County but also reinforces Forest County Potawatomi Community’s (FCPC) commitment to modern energy investments and creating value for community members.
The charging hub features four ports of 150kW DC fast charging available to the public 24/7. The charging hub is located within the secure, well-lit Fireside Market parking lot with a unique all-weather canopy cover for customer comfort. Fireside Market amenities are available to EV drivers from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven-days-a-week. Several charging promotions are slated to run over the coming months to allow EV drivers to experience this new offering at a discounted rate. The platform also supports multiple convenient payment methods.
“The Potawatomi community has always been stewards of the land, and this grant allows us to continue that legacy in a modern way,” said Kip Ritchie, CEO of Potawatomi Ventures. “By investing in EV infrastructure, we’re building a future that reflects our values and sets a powerful example for other tribal nations.”
Brooks Boyd, Chairman of the FCPC, added: “This new EV charging amenity helps serve both the Forest County community and travelers along Highway 8, expanding access to reliable, convenient charging while supporting the region’s transition to cleaner transportation. The investment reflects the Tribe’s commitment to sustainability, infrastructure, and welcoming travelers through northern Wisconsin. We’re proud to lead with purpose and show how tribal communities can shape the future of energy and transportation.”
The completion of the charging hub reflects Potawatomi Ventures’ broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions by greening the Tribe’s vehicle fleet, which now includes 10 full battery electric vehicles across Potawatomi Ventures and FCPC, widening the path for a cleaner, more sustainable future for all. All Fireside Market locations are committed to expanding access to alternate fueling options.
Potawatomi Ventures is the economic development and diversification portfolio company of the Forest County Potawatomi Community. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Potawatomi Ventures oversees a portfolio of subsidiary companies and strategic investments designed to generate sustainable financial growth. With a focus on profitability, innovation, and long-term value, the organization drives economic development through diverse business ventures.
