Honoring Chief Executive Virgil Wind as a TCB 100 Honoree

At Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures (MLCV), we understand that leadership transcends everyday business. True leadership focuses on creating impactful transformation, and empowering others to do the same.

This year, Twin Cities Business has distinctly recognized Chief Executive Virgil Wind of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe as one of their prestigious 2024 TCB 100 Honorees. This accolade celebrates visionaries driving change and shaping a brighter future for Minnesota.

“It is an incredible honor to be recognized by Twin Cities Business, and I share this recognition with the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, and our partners at MLCV. I am deeply proud of our work, and look forward to driving continuous growth in the interests of our community members here in Mille Lacs,” Chief Executive Wind said. 

“It is an incredible honor to be recognized by Twin Cities Business. I am deeply proud of our work, and look forward to driving continuous growth in the interests of our community members here in Minnesota.”
— Chief Executive Virgil Wind

Under Chief Wind's dynamic leadership, MLCV prioritizes the empowerment of the Mille Lacs Tribal Economy, playing an indispensable role in stimulating the broader community through job creation, economic development, and pioneering projects that benefit all of our communities.

“Development of modern, affordable workforce housing such as Sugar Maple Crossing, the opening of the Onamia Childcare Center, and creating new jobs through Lake Leaf Cultivation are just a few examples of how MLCV works in partnership with the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe under Chief Wind’s leadership,” says Joseph Nayquonabe, Jr., CEO of MLCV, and Commissioner of Corporate Affairs. “Our partnership continuously centers business growth around our mission, and Chief Wind’s leadership fosters unity and strategic development, positioning the Mille Lacs Band as a beacon of growth and opportunity.”

Chief Executive Wind’s leadership fosters unity and strategic development, positioning the Mille Lacs Band as a beacon of growth and opportunity.
— Joseph Nayquonabe, Jr., MLCV CEO & Commissioner of Corporate Affairs

In addition to the successes our community has already benefitted from, Chief Wind has a bold vision—a thriving future for the tribe and its neighbors. This vision focuses on robust economic growth through job creation, vital infrastructure and housing development, enhanced education for youth development, culture and language preservation, as well as strengthened collaboration and advocacy. 

Virgil Wind's leadership embodies MLCV's mission to ignite growth and innovation; he cultivates a culture of collaboration and forward-thinking within our organization. This honor reflects his profound dedication to shaping a vibrant future for all. 

Giminochige, Chief Executive Wind!
[GUH-MINNOW-CHE-GAY]
You’re doing a good job.

Join us in celebrating this remarkable achievement and the visionary leadership that propels MLCV toward unprecedented success. We are building a future filled with opportunity, empowerment, and sustainability.

Read more about this honor in Twin Cities Business.


We invite you to learn more about Chief Executive Virgil Wind, the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, and Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures.