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(July 2020) After years of working in Human Resources and Talent Development – along with a stint in Culinary school in NYC – J Dutton has taken a much-loved hobby and side hustle and is turning it into a full-fledged business. A very sweet one.

J elaborates: “I created BrOn’s Confections in 2012.  It has been a hobby/home business since then.  I am now purchasing commercial equipment and am trying to transition this into a true business. 

Inspired by the single mother who raised the family working 2 or 3 jobs, the name BrOn’s is a combination of her maiden name and the family’s last name: Br’ from Bristol/Brown and ‘On’ from Dutton.  J recalls “She was the proudest and strongest person I ever knew.  She sacrificed a lot for us kids.  She passed in 2005 from complications from COPD that she developed while working in a plastic factory. This is a way to honor her and keep her memory alive.”

While he is still currently looking for investors, J expounded on how he connected with Chi Ishobak for help launching his business. “I’ve worked with Chi since I began working for the Pokagon Government in 2016.   I embraced the history and culture completely.   When I was furloughed and my position eliminated due to the COVID shutdown, part of my soul was taken.  I was able to work with Chi as part of the Pokagon umbrella but have also been able to collaborate with them on projects. When I started looking for funding to start purchasing some equipment to start the transition to a full business, Chi was my only thought.  I trust them and know they have my back.” Sean Winters, Chi Ishobak’s Executive Director said “Our CDFI was created as an effort of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indian tribal government to assist businesses get started or expand, and J’s venture is right up our alley. Happy to be part of this growing business!”

With bon bon’s, barks, bars and cheesecakes, BrOn’s has got something for every sweet tooth and appetite. Take a look (and a bite!) at www.bronsconfections.com.

About Chi-Ishobak

Chi Ishobak is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that was established in 2009 promote the improvement of the financial capacity of all Tribal members by equipping them with the skills, knowledge and confidence that they need to make informed judgments and to make effective decisions with respect to their current and future personal and household circumstances. Chi Ishobak provides tribal citizens with the tools and opportunities needed for meaningful lives and self-sufficiency, whether through employment, self-employment, or traditional life-ways.

By building capacity for Tribal Citizens, Chi Ishobak is helping rebuild the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi as well as Indian Country into supportive and nurturing communities, strong in language and culture.  For more information: www.chiishobak.org