Putting Tribal SovereigntyOur mission is to enhance the health and wellness of Tribal communities by advancing healthy food systems, diversified economic development, and cultural food traditions.
WHAT’S NEW
Tribal Aquaculture Investments Spur Industry Growth
Growth amongst Tribal producers was a bright spot in the most recent Census of Agriculture. American Indian/Alaska Native-owned operations account for more than 58,000 farms nationwide, with almost 10 percent of Tribal producers working in aquaculture or other animal...
IFAI Policy Brief April 22, 2025
Summary Congress is in recess through this week, but check out our blog from last week on the recent anniversary of Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA) and its impact in Tribal food and agriculture. The Food and Nutrition Service is...
The Next Frontier in Expanded Tribal Self-Determination and Self-Governance Authority
The Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA), Public Law 93-638, has provided Tribes the ability to improve federal program efficiency and impact for more than 50 years. However, food and agricultural programs have largely been left out. The...
IFAI Policy Brief April 15, 2025
Summary Congress is on recess for two weeks, but if you want to learn more about Executive Orders and Actions impacting Tribal food and agriculture, see IFAI’s webinar on our website here. The Food and Nutrition Service is requesting comments about the 2027 Farm to...
IFAI Policy Brief April 8, 2025
Summary Last week, the House Committee on Natural Resources held a field hearing in Oklahoma City to examine 50 years of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA). Seven Tribal leaders were in attendance, and their comments as well as other...
What We Do
The Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative (IFAI) focuses on putting Tribal sovereignty in food sovereignty, promoting Tribally driven solutions to revitalize and advance traditional food systems and diversified economic development throughout Indian Country. IFAI provides Tribal governments, producers, and food businesses with educational resources, policy research, and strategic legal analysis as a foundation for building robust food economies.
EVENT CALENDAR
The Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative participates in virutal and in-person events nationwide to ensure that Tribes and individual producers, regardless of their location, have access to the resources and support they need. IFAI participates in outreach events, youth events, food safety trainings, and Tribal enterprise outreach wherever we are needed. This calendar shows you where we are going and how we are impacting Indian Country.
Funding Opportunities
Grants and funding opportunities are key tools for many Tribes and Tribal producers. However, navigating the list of programs available can be challenging. To help, IFAI staff stay on top of the latest grants and opportunities. Check out the latest list by clicking the button below.
WASHINGTON - The House of Representatives is expected to vote on the 2026 Farm Bill during the week of April 27, according to a recent notice from the House Rules...
University of Missouri Location: Columbia, MO Closing Date: May 16, 2026 Duties Include: Provide principled, strategic leadership that advances excellence in research,...
Central State University Location: Wilberforce, OH Closing Date: Open Until Filled Duties Include: Develop, organize and provide outreach and programming for current...
North Carolina State University Location: Greensboro, NC Closing Date: April 20, 2026 Duties Include: NC State Extension extends research-based knowledge to all North...
Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College Location: Cloquet, MN Closing Date: May 1, 2026 Duties Include: Teach a variety of college courses related to American Indian...
Our Partners
Our work depends on the generous support we receive from the partners listed below.
