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
Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative Names New Interim Director
After leading the Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative (IFAI) as the organization’s executive director since 2020, Erin Parker, J.D., L.L.M., has announced her resignation, effective as of Friday, May 31, 2024. Carly Griffith Hotvedt (Cherokee Nation) J.D.,...
Policy Brief – May 28, 2024
Summary USDA is holding multiple consultations at NCAI mid-year in early June to discuss self-determination policies in forestry, food safety, and nutrition programs as well as other topics. Access IFAI’s briefing documents here. On June 5, there is a consultation on...
Tribal Briefing Materials – USDA June 2024 Consultations Expanding Tribal Self-Determination in USDA
The Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative's Tribal Leader Briefing Materials help Tribal leaders, citizens, and producers prepare for the USDA Tribal Consultations scheduled alongside NCAI's Mid-Year Conference in Cherokee, North Carolina, in June 2024. Unable to...
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

















