Lumbee Tribe Creates New Economic Development and Tourism Department

Press Release

Lumbee Tribe Creates New Economic Development and Tourism Department

Pembroke, NC (October 21, 2025) – During the October business meeting the Lumbee Tribal Council voted to approve the creation of a new Economic Development and Tourism Department. This is a historic step for the Lumbee Tribe and follows the creation of an Agriculture and Natural Resources Department in 2022 and New Health and Human Services Department in 2023.

Lumbee Tribal Chairman John L. Lowery thanked Speaker Alex Baker and Committee Chairman Gerald Goolsby for being very supportive and ushering the passage of this new department through the Tribal Council. “Economic development is more than a pathway to growth, it is the living expression of our sovereignty and the foundation of true self-governance,” said Lowery. “The creation of this new department marks a pivotal moment in our journey toward greater self-determination and shared prosperity. As we strengthen our efforts in economic and tourism development, we are charting a bold new course, one that expands our horizons beyond government contracting and opens doors to diverse, sustainable opportunities for our people. Together, we are building an economy that reflects our values, honors our heritage, and secures a thriving future for generations to come.”

Through the establishment of this department, tribal administration recognizes the essential role that economic development plays in advancing tribal sovereignty, strengthening self-sufficiency, and improving the quality of life for Lumbee people. The Lumbee community includes entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals, whose success contributes directly to tribal prosperity and future opportunities. The Lumbee Tribe has identified a critical need to expand and coordinate business development programs, workforce training, financial literacy, and partnerships with federal, state, and private entities.

Councilman Gerald Goolsby, (District 2) Economic Development Committee Chairman, states the committee has generated numerous ideas over the past 5 years, but the committee and council lacked the necessary infrastructure, funding, and grants to effectively implement the ideas and build the required facilities, but the establishment of this department is a great starting point. “We started with the idea of creating the department and I'm so pleased that the chairman was excited and supported moving forward with the initiative,” said Goolsby. “The committee has worked to learn about business and tourism strategies and we look forward to bringing some of the ideas to fruition.”

The mission of the Lumbee Tribe Economic Development and Tourism Department shall be to foster sustainable economic growth and expand tourism opportunities that honor and showcase Lumbee history, culture, and traditions.