CHEYENNE, Wyo./Colorado Springs, Colo. — The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) Board of Directors approved a non-binding memorandum of understanding to seriously consider relocating the organization’s headquarters, along with the PRCA Hall of Fame and Museum of the American Cowboy, to Wyoming. The move would bring professional rodeo’s premier organization to the Cowboy State, where rodeo is officially recognized as Wyoming’s professional sport, by vote of the Wyoming Legislature. The process was thorough and included productive conversations from multiple locations and a proposal from Colorado Springs leadership.
In addition to a friendly business climate and no state income tax, Cheyenne offered to build a Hall of Fame and an administrative building to host the PRCA national headquarters with upgraded office space, first class conference rooms and other amenities. The relocation represents a strategic move for the PRCA and underscores Wyoming’s deep-rooted connection to western heritage, rodeo and the cowboy way of life. The transition is anticipated to occur early in 2029.
The proposed PRCA campus will be located near the highly visible intersection of Interstate 25 and Interstate 80, positioning it at one of the most traveled crossroads in the region. The approximately 35-acre site is envisioned as the anchor of a new western-themed entertainment, cultural and shopping district, creating a year-round destination for fans, families and visitors from around the world.
PRCA leadership emphasized the long-term benefits of the move for the organization and its members.
“This is a strategic decision that positions the PRCA for the future,” said Tom Glause, CEO of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. “Wyoming lives and breathes rodeo, and Cheyenne offers authenticity, visibility and alignment with our sport’s values. The opportunity to build a purpose-driven campus that celebrates rodeo’s history while supporting its growth is incredibly exciting.”
Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon praised the decision and highlighted its significance for the state’s economy and cultural identity.
“Rodeo has been a part of Wyoming since before we were a state. It is in our DNA. I grew up roping a dummy at every PRCA rodeo, first my dad and then myself, competed in,” Gov. Gordon said. “There is no better place on Earth than right here in the Cowboy State for the PRCA to be headquartered. We have the legacy, respect the tradition, and will always honor the cowboy way and Code of the West. Powder River, Let’er Buck!”
The relocation is contingent upon approval of project funding by the Wyoming Legislature. In December, the Cheyenne LEADS Board of Directors voted to commit $15 million from its reserves as matching funds toward the project. Additional public and private funding sources will be pursued to support development of the campus and surrounding district.
“This announcement reflects both Wyoming’s legacy and its future,” said Betsey Hale, CEO of Cheyenne LEADS. “Rodeo is woven into the fabric of our state, and welcoming the PRCA, its headquarters, and the Hall of Fame to Cheyenne is a natural fit. The Cheyenne LEADS Board strongly believes in this opportunity and voted to invest $15 million as a show of commitment. We look forward to partnering with the City of Cheyenne, Laramie County, along with the PRCA, and other stakeholders to bring this visionary campus to life.”
The future PRCA campus will house administrative offices, the Hall of Fame, and the Museum of the American Cowboy, creating a centralized home that honors the sport’s legacy while supporting innovation, education, and fan engagement.
Additional details regarding funding, design, and development timelines will be released as the project moves forward.
About the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA)
The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) is the oldest and largest professional rodeo-sanctioning body in the world. The recognized leader in professional rodeo, the PRCA is committed to maintaining the highest standards in the industry in every area, from improving working conditions for contestants and monitoring livestock welfare, to boosting entertainment value and promoting sponsors. The PRCA also proudly supports youth rodeo with our educational Youth Camps program and financial assistance to young standouts preparing to enter the professional ranks.
About Cheyenne LEADS
Cheyenne LEADS is the economic development organization for Cheyenne and Laramie County, focused on recruiting, retaining, and expanding business opportunities that strengthen the region’s economy.