Tanka Fund
Tanka Fund is a Native-led nonprofit based in South Dakota. It provides animals, grants, and technical assistance to independent Native American buffalo ranches. Its work honors the cultural and spiritual significance of the Buffalo Nation to Native American communities as well as addresses the challenges in growing economically and environmentally sustainable herds using traditional caretaking methods.
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After findings from our buffalo market study strongly suggested the need for a mobile harvest facility, Tanka Fund wanted to test the feasibility of a new unit. Our role was to conduct follow-up interviews with individuals engaged in the buffalo processing industry, examine case studies, and provide strategic recommendations for moving forward.
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Outline financial projections and legal considerations for a mobile slaughter unit (MSU) that include varying capacity and customization levels.
Identify public and private funding avenues, as well as local partnerships.
Provide recommendations for structuring the new business.
Develop a marketing strategy and staffing plan.
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The results of the study confirmed that a mobile harvesting unit would increase availability of local buffalo meat and strengthen the region's economy. The compiled report included strategies for fundraising and partnerships, and it's been used extensively for workforce development, housing, and in obtaining a slaughter house in Rapid City, South Dakota.
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Jan 2022–Jun 2023
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Mairi Creedon — Data collection and analysis, literature review, interviews, and report writing
Andrea Mader — In-person strategic planning, financial analysis, and report writing
“[We] have great plans to work with to move forward in buffalo restoration.” —Trudy Ecoffey, Tanka Fund
