At the heart of Ho-Chunk, Inc. is a foundational mission rooted in the advancement and prosperity of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska. Established in 1994, the corporation was born from a vision to create a robust and sustainable economic future for its people, moving beyond initial revenue streams to build a diversified and resilient enterprise. The core philosophy is not merely about profit generation; it's about weaving a new narrative of opportunity, self-sufficiency, and community well-being. The ancestral name for the Winnebago community, Hochungra, translates to 'People of the Big Voice,' and Ho-Chunk, Inc., or 'The People, Incorporated,' embodies this spirit by giving the tribe a powerful voice in the economic landscape. This is a culture driven by the intrinsic values of endurance and collaboration, principles that have guided the Winnebago people through generations of adversity and are now channeling their success in the business world.
The company's culture is a testament to its commitment to its founding purpose: creating not just an economy, but a thriving middle class on the reservation. This has led to a measurable improvement in the quality of life for tribal members in less than a generation. The team fosters an environment where contributions are valued, talents are celebrated, and potential is unleashed. This is evident in their dedication to community-focused initiatives, from developing new housing in the Ho-Chunk Village to investing in education and creating meaningful employment. Programs like 'Ho-Chunk Way,' an employee donation initiative, directly support critical community needs, reinforcing the symbiotic relationship between the corporation's success and the tribe's welfare. It’s a culture where business acumen is paired with a deep sense of responsibility, ensuring that every success contributes to the larger goal of empowering the Winnebago Tribe for generations to come.