The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced 12 finalists for the USDA Regional Food Business Centers, including one tribally-serving center.

The Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative at the U of A School of Law looks forward to working with the Intertribal Agriculture Council, Akiptan and the Indian Land Tenure Foundation, as well as the Native American Agriculture Fund as a philanthropic partner, to address Indian Country food security and access through this tribally-serving center.

"The National Intertribal Food Business Center is a historic investment in improving Indian Country's food security and access while also supporting tribal economic development through food and agriculture," said Carly Griffith Hotvedt, IFAI associate executive director. "Under the leadership of our executive director, Erin Parker, IFAI is grateful for the opportunity to collaboratewith IAC and other partners on this project."

IFAI will provide strategic legal analysis, policy research and educational resources to assist with the formation and implantation of the National Intertribal Food Business Center.

"With over 35 years of experience in food and business development work, IAC is excited about this opportunity to expand access to Native food producers and tribal food systems that empower self-determination in Indian Country,"said Kari Jo Lawrence, executive director of the Intertribal Agriculture Council. "Our collaboration with the USDA will heal broken food systems and build sustainable economic growth for our communities."

This project aligns with IFAI's mission to enhance the health and wellness of tribal communities by advancing healthy food systems, diversified economic development and cultural food traditions.

In 2013, IFAI formed within the U of A School of Law to fill an unmet need in Indian Country, serving tribes, tribal producers and tribal citizens with food and agriculture policy and legal research, educational programs and more.

"We are very proud of IFAI's impactful role in assisting in the formation of the National Intertribal Food Business Center," said Cynthia Nance, U of A School of Law dean and Nathan G. Gordon professor. "IFAI's nationally recognized expertise and service is a reflection of our mission as a land grant institution."