FAQ

The Intertribal Agriculture Council (IAC) is honored to lead this initiative in service to Indian Country’s food systems. We are committed to a thoughtful approach that ensures a lasting impact for generations to come.

Below are answers addressing common questions about the NIFBC initiative. For further clarification, please email NIFBC@indianag.org.

What happened to the Regional Food Business Centers?

On July 15, 2025, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the termination of the Regional Food Business Centers program. Shortly after the announcement, USDA issued a modified termination letter to the IAC, which explicitly details that this announcement does directly impact the previously committed funding for the National Intertribal Food Business Center (NIFBC).
Will Business Builder Awards still be funded?

We believe at least some of them will be. USDA has indicated that Business Builder Awards that have been executed, selected, or announced may proceed under a modified agreement, however, we are seeking guidance from USDA to understand how that designation applies to the NIFBC’s list of eligible awardees and the requirements for moving them forward. The IAC held a meeting with USDA AMS on July 17th, during which they were informed future guidance would be forthcoming.
What if I was recently announced as an awardee?

The NIFBC’s pilot round awardees were notified in early July. If you were notified by the NIFBC that your Business Builder Award was approved, you likely fall within the scope of “selected or announced” and may still be eligible. We are prioritizing outreach to each of these awardees individually, and will provide updates as we receive additional information from USDA.
What can I do?

The IAC held a meeting with USDA AMS on July 17th, during which they were informed no final decision has been made yet about how USDA defines “pending” awards relative to our center. Thus, we encourage you to reach out to your representative and advocate that any business working with the National Intertribal Food Business Center be considered a “pending” applicant and that their awards be honored by the USDA.
Can I apply for a Business Builder Award?

There are no Business Builder Applications being accept at this time.
Should I keep working on any outstanding aspects of my application package?

Yes. If you can, please continue. Submitting your materials could help ensure you remain eligible, depending on how USDA defines "pending." We hope to have more guidance soon.
When will we know more?

The IAC held a meeting with USDA AMS on July 17th, during which they were informed future guidance would be forthcoming on timelines, allowable costs, and award eligibility. We will share updates here and via our NIFBC mailing list as soon as we have them.
What does this mean for the future of the NIFBC?

While this USDA-funded phase of the NIFBC is being scaled back, IAC’s mission—and our commitment to Tribal food businesses—is not ending. We are actively exploring ways to sustain and evolve this work through other avenues.
How can I stay informed?

Bookmark this FAQ page for real-time updates. Follow the Intertribal Agriculture Council on social media (@IndianAgCouncil). Reach out directly to the NIFBC at NIFBC@indianag.org for questions.
What if I feel frustrated, confused, or discouraged?

You’re not alone—and your reaction is valid. This is a sudden shift in federal priorities, and it has real consequences for Indian Country food entrepreneurs who invested time and resources to become eligible for funding directly supporting agriculture in Indian Country. We are doing everything in our power to advocate for you, protect the investments already made, and build toward new opportunities. Please reach out. We're here to help.

Find more FAQs on the USDA's Regional Food Business Centers FAQ page.

Click on the links below to learn more about Centers in the following areas:

RESOURCES

Q: What can I do to prepare myself/my business for NIFBC funding?

A great starting point to prepare for receiving a NIFBC Business Builder subaward is obtaining a UEI for your business/entity. A UEI is a Unique Entity Identifier number that allows you to receive federal funding. To apply for one, go to www.SAM.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions For Obtaining A Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)

Q: I’ve been trying to get my UEI and I get an error code. What can I do to fix this?

A: If you’re using the Safari browser, try switching to Google Chrome and this should stop you from getting the error code.

Q: Which drop down options should I pick on SAM.gov when applying for my UEI?

1. "I want to do business..."
- Select: With a business or other organization which receives funds directly from the US Federal Government.
2. "Select the answer that best fits your intentions today..."
- Select: Apply as a grantee for federal funds distributed by a government entity other than the US Government
3. "Who required me to apply..."
- Select: A non-profit organization

Q: What can I expect after sending the NIFBC team my UEI?

A: Once we have your UEI, we can identify and verify if your business size and geographic location meet our eligibility criteria. If eligible, you can expect to be invited by our team to apply which involves filing out a Community Impact Story outlining how you plan to utilize your subaward.

Contact IAC to learn more.

Email us at nifbc@indianag.org or fill out the contact form linked below for more information about IFBC.

CONTACT US