TenderBison has partnered with the Spirit Lake Tribe’s Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) through a USDA Self-Determination Grant. The initiative focuses on providing healthy, locally sourced bison meat to eligible community members while supporting tribal agriculture, cultural traditions, and economic sustainability.
Mary Greene Trottier, Spirit Lake Tribe member and advocate of USDA-Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), provided us with an in-depth interview on how two organizations bonded by values and bison were able to mutually benefit each other. Through a close-to-home supply chain utilizing tribal bison herd, Spirit Lake Tribe and TenderBison partnered to support each other.
Tell us about the partnership between Spirit Lake Tribe and TenderBison.
The partnership began June 2023 after the Spirit Lake Tribe received a USDA Self-Determination Grant through the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). Before TenderBison, the program sourced bison from national warehouses, resulting in very low take rates—around 200 pounds per month. Once TenderBison became the supplier, distribution increased tenfold, showing the success and popularity of the new products. The partnership provides the tribe with fresh, locally produced bison meat from a supplier just 20 miles away. Local sourcing ensures freshness, reduces storage time, and supports the regional economy. The team eventually had to place take-rate limits due to overwhelming demand.
“You don’t get any fresher than that. It’s not stored at some warehouse in the middle of the country — it’s just right down the road.”
What makes this partnership mutually beneficial for TenderBison and the tribe?
- Local supply chain: TenderBison’s plant is only 20 miles away, keeping costs and transport time low.
- Economic sustainability: The partnership helps generate return on investment for the tribe’s bison herd and supports the local processing plant.
- Quality assurance: All products are freshly processed and not stored long-term in national warehouses.
- Community impact: The tribe’s FDPIR can provide a healthier, culturally relevant protein while keeping jobs and funds local.
The partnership supports tribal self-determination, economic growth, and nutrition goals.
What values do TenderBison and the tribe have in common that make this partnership work?
We share the North Dakota work ethic and a strong sense of reliability and collaboration. TenderBison’s team is highly responsive and approachable — the FDPIR staff can communicate directly via email or text. This one-on-one relationship builds trust, mutual respect, and operational efficiency. Both parties are community-oriented and committed to quality and service.
Did you face any challenges making this partnership successful and how were they overcome?
The main challenge was forecasting supply and demand early on. There was some initial uncertainty about how much bison product would be needed each month. TenderBison remained flexible and responsive, substituting with similar products when certain cuts were unavailable. Strong communication between the tribe and TenderBison helped the program adapt and grow smoothly.
How has the availability of TenderBison products been received by the tribe?
Reception has been extremely positive among both tribal and non-tribal members. Participants appreciate the taste, freshness, and health benefits. The products have even gained attention from congressional staff and state leaders, who have come to visit the program. The program has become a source of pride and community identity.
How has the partnership impacted the Spirit Lake community?
The program has reconnected families to traditional foods and healthier diets. Bison’s health benefits and cultural resonance have strengthened community pride. It supports nutrition improvement and cultural preservation simultaneously.
How does TenderBison ensure its practices align with both sustainability and tribal values?
TenderBison displayed deep cultural respect and understanding from the beginning. Their leadership discussed the sacred relationship between the tribe and the bison. TenderBison provides bones, hides, and other parts for traditional use — honoring the practice of using the entire animal. The partnership aligns sustainability, tradition, and modern processing ethics.
“When we first met with Steve, we discussed why bison is so close to our community and he understood that.”
