Lexington’s newest strategic partner, Richard Tall Bear of The Tall Bear Group, has won the prestigious “Native American 40 Under 40” award by the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development, presented at their 34th annual Indian Progress in Business Event (INPRO), September 16 – 18 in Tulsa, Okalhoma. Richard Tall Bear has made The Tall Bear Group into a groundbreaking business model for Indian Country. His concept is to always utilize local tribal member labor to the maximum extent feasible on all projects, network and advocate for other Indian-owned business selling products and services, and to beat the competition by providing the best products and services. In these ways, The Tall Bear Group is a significant contributor to making monies actually circulate within the Native American economy.

TallBear Solar was launched in the fall of 2008 by CEO Richard TallBear in response to client requests for assistance in procuring Solar energy systems for projects that range from small residential/business clients to tribal owned utilities. The TallBear Group is now developing a micro-grid solar/wind hybrid model for Tribes seeking solutions to utilizing their renewable energy challenges in remote or multiple locations.

Lexington has recently partnered with The Tall Bear Group in a strategic alliance, blending the best of what each has to offer. The Lexington-Tall Bear Partnership provides a turnkey operation for creating renewable energy systems, new casinos and other leisure industry enterprises, giving them an integrated, single resource for the highest quality in design, project management, fabrication, equipment and furnishings.

The provider of the “Native American 40 Under 40” awards, the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development (NCAIED) is the first national non-profit corporation created and directed by American Indians, solely dedicated to developing American Indian economic self-sufficiency through business ownership. To celebrate their 40th Anniversary Year, the NCAIED created the first “Native American 40 Under 40” recognition, honoring 40 existing and emerging American Indian leaders under 40 years of age who have demonstrated leadership, initiative and dedication to achieve impressive and significant contributions in their businesses, communities and to Indian Country.

This inaugural award is the spotlight of the NCAIED conference, at the black tie gala of their 34th annual Indian Progress in Business Event (INPRO 2009). Congratulations, Richard Tall Bear!