BATTLE CREEK, MI – The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi (NHBP), owners of FireKeepers Casino Hotel in Battle Creek, contributed $24.5 million to Michigan and the local community through substantial contributions. The State of Michigan received $18.5 million, while the FireKeepers Local Revenue Sharing Board (FLRSB) was awarded $6 million – funding that directly supports vital programs and services. Since FireKeepers Casino Hotel opened in August 2009, NHBP has contributed more than $253.8 million to the State of Michigan and $84.6 million to the FLRSB, bringing the total lifetime contributions to an extraordinary $338.5 million. Over the past four years, FireKeepers has contributed over $105 million to the state and FLRSB.
Two checks were presented from NHBP and FireKeepers; the first for $18,518,203 was presented to Emerson Silvernail, Chief of Staff for State Representative Sarah Lightner, who represents Michigan’s 45 House of Representatives District, an area that includes FireKeepers. The second check for $6,077,823 was presented to Derek King, Vice-Chair of FLRSB. The funds distributed are part of a negotiated agreement between NHBP and the state for 2024 operations at NHBP’s FireKeepers Casino Hotel.
“Our outstanding performance is a tribute to the resort destination we have created and the award-winning guest service of our more than 2000 valued team members,” said Dorie Rios, Tribal Council Chairperson for the NHBP. “The tribe is proud of contributing over a quarter of a billion dollars to the State of Michigan in our gaming history and nearly $85 million to our local community, plus purchasing from Michigan vendors is always a priority.”
FireKeepers Casino Hotel continues to make a lasting impact through its financial contributions and community partnerships. With a workforce of approximately 2,044 team members, FireKeepers remains one of the area’s leading employers.
“FireKeepers is more than just a casino – it’s a driving force for economic growth and community support,” said Frank Tecumseh, CEO at FireKeepers Casino Hotel. “From funding key programs like the Kendall Street Food Pantry to sponsoring premier events like the FireKeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway and the FireKeepers Casino Hotel Golf Championship, we are committed to making a lasting impact. Our success allows us to give back in meaningful ways, strengthening the region and enhancing opportunities for those who live and work here.”
Since opening, FireKeepers has invested more than $1.13 billion in wages, benefits, and incentives for its team members. This includes total wages, health insurance, 401(k) matches, and performance-based incentives, reinforcing FireKeepers’ reputation as an employer of choice.
