Potawatomi Ventures, the investment arm of the Forest County Potawatomi Community, has acquired Lyons Electric, a Wisconsin-based commercial and industrial electrical contractor. This strategic move significantly expands Potawatomi Ventures' capabilities in energy infrastructure and electrical services, aligning with its broader diversification strategy into clean energy and sustainable technology.

Lyons Electric, established in 1979, specializes in electrical construction, design/build services, and maintenance for commercial and industrial clients across Wisconsin. The company, employing approximately 50 electricians, will retain its current leadership and operate within Potawatomi Ventures' Emerging Technologies Group, which was launched in 2022. This group aims to bolster the tribe's presence in full-service electrical contracting, EV charging infrastructure, and sustainable development.

This acquisition underscores Potawatomi Ventures' increasing focus on energy-related infrastructure. The company's "fireside MARKET" convenience store concept already incorporates electrification and sustainability features, including EV charging stations and green infrastructure. Recent developments include plans for a second southeastern Wisconsin fireside MARKET in Brown Deer, featuring canopy-covered EV chargers and stormwater management, with another location under construction in Slinger, expected to open later this year.

Further demonstrating its commitment to the EV sector, the Forest County Potawatomi Community secured a National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) grant in October 2024, becoming the first tribe in the U.S. to do so. This grant will fund the installation of four 160kW DC fast-charging ports at the Stone Lake fireside MARKET, with installation slated for 2025. CEO Kip Ritchie highlighted the synergy, stating, "Being in a position in that sector as it grows was just a good fit for us."

While Lyons Electric will initially focus on commercial and industrial markets, Potawatomi Ventures may eventually integrate the firm into its federal government contracts portfolio, which currently employs around 600 of its 750 nationwide staff. The acquisition also supports the tribal enterprise's commitment to creating workforce opportunities for tribal citizens and Native workers in skilled trades. Lyons Electric's existing apprenticeship program, which recruits from high schools and technical colleges, will continue under the new ownership, fostering career development within the community. This move complements Potawatomi Ventures' broader investment strategy, which includes passive investments in sectors like healthcare, as evidenced by its participation in BAMF Health's Series C funding round in 2024.