Our 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
Secretary’s Memorandum Clarifies USDA Commitment to Tribal Trust Responsibility
On May 5, 2025, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) issued Secretary's Memorandum 1078-010, which clarifies how certain executive orders apply to federally recognized Indian Tribes, their citizens, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiian Communities. “The...
IFAI Policy Brief May 13, 2025
Summary The House Agriculture Committee plans on holding a Tuesday night debate on the committee’s reconciliation bill text for the fiscal year with implications on many food and nutrition programs impacting Indian Country. The bill text is expected to be released 24...
Rooted Wisdom, Season 2 Episode 2: Cultivating Resilience: NCFRSAC and IFAI’s Role in Supporting Tribal Mental Health
The latest episode of Rooted Wisdom features a discussion on agricultural mental health initiatives with Josie Rudolphi, Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist at the University of Illinois, and Kaycee Captain, a Tribal outreach and policy specialist at the...
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.
Putting Tribal Sovereignty

















