Held in conjunction with the Executive Council Winter Session and the Native Youth Leadership Summit, the State of Indian Nations (SOIN) is an event featuring the State of Indian Nations address, delivered by NCAI President Mark Macarro; the State of Indian Nations Youth Address by the co-presidents of the NCAI Youth Commission (NCAI-YC); and a Congressional Response from an active member of Congress.

2027 State of Indian Nations

Save the date! Bringing together Native youth leaders of Indian Country, the 2027 Native Youth Leadership Summit (NYLS) provides practical skills and immersive, hands-on training to prepare the next generation of Indigenous policy advocates to lead the way in advancing sovereignty.

2027 Native Youth Leadership Summit

Save the date for the 2027 NCAI Executive Council Winter Session (ECWS)! ECWS is the annual meeting of the NCAI Executive Council, which includes NCAI's Executive Committee and Tribal delegates. This meeting presents an opportunity for Tribal delegates to hear from members of Congress and the Administration, furthering the government-to-government relationship between Tribal Nations and the federal government.

2027 Executive Council Winter Session

In collaboration with Harvard Business School, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) offers the Leading Tribal Nations Program, designed to equip Tribal leaders with the knowledge and skills to advance their strategic governance capacity. During the five-day program, Tribal leaders will engage in collaborative learning and problem-solving through the case-study model facilitated on the Harvard Business School campus.

Dates: December 6-11, 2026

Cost: $3,500 per participant, which includes lodging at Harvard Business School, meals, and amenities on all participant days. It does not include airfare or lodging before or after the program ends.

The program is designed for elected Tribal leaders. Non-elected leaders and Tribal professionals may apply, but elected Tribal leaders in good standing will receive preference.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.

The priority application deadline is Thursday, October 1, 2026.

: This event is full; NCAI is no longer accepting applications.

NCAI's 2026 Leading Tribal Nations Executive Education Program at Harvard Business School

Community Development Financial Institutions Fund

 (CDFI Fund) is hosting monthly webinars to serve as an open forum for potential CDFI Certification Applicants, currently Certified CDFIs, and other stakeholders. These sessions are designed to provide a space for participants to ask questions and discuss the evolving CDFI Certification process.

During each session, CDFI Fund staff will provide a walkthrough demonstration of a specific aspect of the CDFI Certification Application. This hands-on approach provides Tribal Nations and Native Entities with detailed instructions and guidance on key components of the application. Following the presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to ask general certification inquiries.

Access to capital is a cornerstone of Tribal sovereignty and economic resilience. These webinars support Native Entities in navigating the federal certification process, ensuring they can effectively leverage CDFI resources to serve their communities.

All webinars held at 3:00–4:00 p.m. ET:

The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) is hosting monthly webinars to serve as an open forum for potential CDFI Certification Applicants, currently Certified CDFIs, and other stakeholders. These sessions are designed to provide a space for participants to ask questions and discuss the evolving CDFI Certification process.

Monthly CDFI Certification Webinars from the CDFI Fund

The Native American Fish and Wildlife Society's (NAFWS) Tribal Fish and Wildlife Working Group is a Tribal-only forum dedicated to advancing the conservation, protection, and enhancement of fish and wildlife resources across Tribal lands and communities. Meetings are held virtually, enabling broad participation and regular dialogue among Tribal natural resource professionals. 

Pollinator Working Group: February 17, July 21 

Wildlife Connectivity Working Group: April 21, September 15 

Reptile & Amphibian Working Group: May 19, October 20 

Fisheries & Aquatics Working Group: June 16, November 17

NAFWS Tribal Fish and Wildlife Working Group Webinar Series

Tribal Leaders: Your Voice and Your Sovereignty Must Be Heard.

Today, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a 

 inviting Tribal Leaders to participate in consultation on 

Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (2 CFR)

, which governs administrative requirements, cost principles, and audit requirements for federal awards.

 of this consultation, an unacceptable and deeply inadequate timeframe for meaningful Tribal engagement.

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) does not consider this process to constitute meaningful Tribal consultation.

Nevertheless, it is imperative that Tribal Leaders participate and make their voices heard.

These proposed revisions will have significant implications for how Tribal Nations access, administer, manage, and account for federal funding. Changes to 2 CFR have the potential to directly affect Tribal governments' ability to implement programs, meet federal requirements, exercise self-governance, and deliver essential services to their citizens.

We must not allow an inadequate consultation process to result in the absence of Tribal Nations' perspectives from decisions that directly affect them.

TAKE ACTION: Participate in OMB's Tribal Consultation

OMB has announced two opportunities to provide input:

Tribal Leaders are strongly encouraged to attend one of these sessions, share their concerns, and clearly communicate the impacts these proposed revisions could have on Tribal Nations.

. Written comments will be accepted for up to five business days following the consultation sessions, which should be Wednesday, November 18, 2026.

 Contact the Office of Federal Financial Management at 

NCAI encourages Tribal Leaders to make clear that:

Five days' notice is not meaningful consultation.

 Tribal Nations need adequate time to review proposed changes, consult with their governing bodies, and prepare informed responses.

Government-to-government consultation must be meaningful.

 Tribal Nations are sovereign governments, not stakeholders in a federal administrative process.

Changes to 2 CFR have real consequences for Tribal Nations.

 Federal grant requirements directly affect Tribal program administration, staffing, compliance costs, access to resources, and the delivery of essential services.

Tribal sovereignty and self-determination must be protected.

 Revisions should not create additional administrative burdens, undermine Tribal governance, or impose requirements that disregard the unique circumstances of Tribal governments.

OMB must provide adequate opportunities for continued engagement.

 The agency must extend the consultation period and provide Tribal Nations sufficient time to review, analyze, and respond to the proposed rule.

NCAI strongly objects to the insufficient notice provided for this consultation and does not consider this process, as currently structured, to satisfy the standards of meaningful Tribal consultation. NCAI also strongly opposes this proposed rule.

Tribal Nations must have adequate time and opportunity to engage in matters that directly affect their governments, citizens, and sovereign authority. A five-day notice period for a government-wide regulatory proposal of this significance is wholly inadequate.

At the same time, NCAI urges every Tribal Leader who is able to participate to do so.

 Our collective presence and voices matter. We must ensure that federal decision-makers hear directly from Tribal Nations about the consequences of these proposed changes and the necessity of meaningful government-to-government engagement.

Do not let an inadequate process become an excuse for the absence of Tribal voices.

Please make every effort to attend, provide comments, and ensure your Nation's concerns are part of the record.

Our sovereignty demands meaningful consultation. Our participation ensures our voices are heard.

OMB Consultation on Proposed Revisions to Regulation for 
Federal Financial Assistance - Summary

OMB Consultation on Proposed Revisions to Regulation for 
Federal Financial Assistance - Talking Points

Webinar: Overview of OMB Rule Proposing Significant Changes to Financial Assistance

Coalition for Tribal Sovereignty Comment Letter

MEM-26-049: Emergency Opposition to OMB Notice of Proposed Rulemaking FR-

2026-10817 and Demand for Government-to-Government Tribal

SEA-25-009: Requiring Free Prior and Informed Consent by Corporations,

Companies, State and Federal Government Agencies Across the United States

Contact Meghan Bishop, Director of Policy at policyinfo@ncai.org

OMB Consultation on Proposed Changes to Financial Assistance Rules 

 October 27, 2026, 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. MT


The Westin Calgary Airport, 671 Aero Dr NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7Y5, Canada

The Jay Treaty Border Alliance Summit brings together First Nation and Tribal leaders, advocates, and government officials from both sides of the border to advance changes in Canadian and U.S. law that recognize and protect the inherent mobility rights of American Indians.

Jay Treaty Border Alliance Summit

The Bureau of Trust Funds Administration (BTFA) is hosting four virtual Tribal consultation sessions on proposed updates to the Indian Affairs Records Schedule for the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Bureau of Indian Education, and BTFA. Tribal leaders and representatives are encouraged to participate and provide oral and written comments.

The proposed updates would change how long certain records are retained, potentially making records currently treated as permanent eligible for destruction. These records hold historical, cultural, and legal significance and may be essential to protecting Tribal rights, administering programs and services, and holding the federal government accountable for its treaty and trust obligations.

NCAI has prepared the following resources to support Tribal Nations in reviewing the proposal and preparing comments:

An overview of the proposed changes, potential impacts for Tribal Nations, and recommended actions.

Key considerations and questions for consultation and written comments, including the protection of Tribal sovereignty, self-determination, and access to essential records.

Indian Affairs Tribal Consultations webpage

For questions about NCAI’s resources, contact Meghan Bishop, Director of Policy, at 

Tribal Consultation: Proposed Updates to the Indian Affairs Records Schedule

The 2026 AFN Annual Convention is scheduled for October 22-24, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska.

The annual convention serves as the principal forum and voice for the Alaska Native community in addressing critical issues of public policy and government. The convention convenes thousands of official delegates and participants from membership organizations across the state.

At the Convention, delegates discuss strategic opportunities and challenges, listen to memorable keynote speeches, hear reports from political leaders and presentations from expert panels, and share stories of resilience, experiences, strengths, knowledge, and hope for the future. The resolutions passed by the voting delegates set the priorities for the year and guide AFN’s efforts. The Convention is the largest representative annual gathering of Native peoples in the United States.

2026 Alaska Federation of Natives Annual Convention 

Join the National Indian Health Board for Community in Health: A Networking Reception with NIHB on Wednesday, October 21 at 5:30 PM PT during the NCAI 83rd Annual Convention at the Palm Springs Convention Center, Palm Springs, California.


This special reception will bring together Tribal leaders, Tribal health partners, and allies for an evening of connection, conversation, and relationship-building. Tribal health is rooted in community, sovereignty, culture, and the strength of relationships. This reception offers an opportunity to connect with NIHB and partners working to advance the health and well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native peoples through Tribally led solutions, stronger public health systems, and a shared commitment to healthier futures. Refreshments and appetizers will be provided. Space is limited, and registration is required. 

Please register using the event link to reserve your spot.

Community in Health: A Reception with the National Indian Health Board

Join the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the Chickasaw Nation for the Honor Awards, an evening celebrating leadership, service, and legacy in Indian Country during the NCAI 83rd Annual Convention & Marketplace.

We invite you to purchase a ticket and join us as we honor:

Governor Bill Anoatubby, Chickasaw Nation

Councilman Gilbert Suazo, Sr., Taos Pueblo

Arlinda Locklear, Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina

California Grand Ballroom, Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel, 

888 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, California 92262

Space is limited. Purchase your ticket and RSVP 

Join us for a memorable evening recognizing these distinguished honorees and their contributions to Indian Country.

Honor Awards 

Join us for Cultural Night at the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza for an evening celebrating the cultures, traditions, and community of Indian Country.

 Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza
140 N. Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA

Admission is open to registered attendees. 

An NCAI 83rd Annual Convention & Marketplace badge must be presented for entry.

Cultural Night

, during the NCAI 83rd Annual Convention & Marketplace, NCAI will hold a press conference on changes to Section 106. Join us at the Palm Springs Convention Center in the General Assembly room (Oasis 2, 3A, 3B). 

Open to press and convention attendees. Press is encouraged to submit questions in advance to 

For six decades, Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) has served as a critical procedural safeguard, ensuring that Tribal Nations maintain a voice in federal decision-making. Historically, this statutory framework has required federal agencies to address the effects of their actions on historic places, fostering collaborative solutions that enhance project outcomes.

However, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) and the U.S. Congress are considering advancing sweeping revisions to Section 106 regulations. These proposed changes weaken statutory protections, replace collaborative consultation with closed agency decision-making, and threaten ancestral homelands. While framed as an efficiency measure to accelerate FAST-41 infrastructure and critical minerals permitting, this overreach violates the NHPA’s statutory intent. By stripping away established procedural certainty, the proposed changes will inevitably trigger widespread litigation, delaying the very projects it seeks to expedite.

For more information and additional resources, visit the 

Section 106 Press Conference

This year’s conference theme celebrates a powerful truth: 

Indigenous tourism is a living expression of sovereignty.

 Around the world, Native Nations continue to exercise their inherent right to govern themselves—protecting homelands, nurturing economic opportunity, and safeguarding the well-being of their citizens. These sovereign responsibilities extend naturally into the realm of cultural tourism.

True Indigenous tourism must be Native led.

 It must be guided by our people, supported by our consent, and rooted in our authority to decide which stories are shared—and how they are shared. No longer will our stories be told without us. Through Indigenous tourism, we uphold our cultural identities, define our own narratives, and strengthen our nations for generations to come.

As we gather at this year’s American Indigenous Tourism Conference, we honor the sovereignty of our Native Nations and celebrate the transformative role of tourism in advancing our self-determination. 

Indigenous Tourism is Sovereignty in Action—and together, we are creating a future where our cultures, communities, and stories thrive.

It’s an exciting time for travel and tourism in America’s Indigenous communities. The AITC is the only national conference dedicated to growing tourism in America’s Indigenous communities and the energy is electric as we prepare to celebrate the 28th anniversary. Taking place from October 19-22, 2026, at the Tulalip Resort Casino in Tulalip, Washington, this is a must attend event for anyone looking to grow their presence in this vibrant industry.

Join more than 300 attendees for networking opportunities, high-level keynotes, and informative sessions led by top hospitality and tourism experts. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to celebrate and elevate Indigenous tourism!

28th Annual American Indian Tourism Conference 

Join the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) in Palm Springs, California, for the 2026 Youth Convention from October 18–22, 2026. This convention is held alongside NCAI's 83rd Annual Convention & Marketplace.

Through youth-focused programming, leadership development, cultural exchange, and opportunities to engage with Tribal leaders and advocates, participants will build relationships and gain knowledge they can carry back to their communities.

The Youth Convention is open to ages 14–24.

2026 Youth Convention

Join the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) in Palm Springs, California, for the 83rd Annual Convention & Marketplace from October 18–22, 2026.

Register by September 15, 2026, to take advantage of Early Bird registration pricing. NCAI Members receive additional savings, so sign up early to maximize your savings!

2026 Annual Policy Resolutions in Progress 

View the 2026 Annual Resolutions in Progress at the link below. The resolutions will be further updated throughout the Annual Convention. 

For more information about the Policy Resolutions process, please visit the 

NCAI 83rd Annual Convention & Marketplace

Join the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) for a day of golf, connection, and purpose in beautiful Palm Desert, California. Held ahead of NCAI’s 83rd Annual Convention & Marketplace, the tournament will bring together Tribal leaders, partners, and supporters to benefit the Tribal Supreme Court Project.

Space is limited — register your team today!  

Event Details

 Desert Willow Golf Resort in Palm Desert, California

Enhance your tournament experience with a 

, available per player. Each Super Ticket includes:

Supporting the Tribal Supreme Court Project

Tournament proceeds will support NCAI and the 

.  Their work strengthens advocacy for Tribal sovereignty and protects Tribal interests before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Space is limited. Early registration is encouraged. 

For questions or additional information, contact 

NCAI Golf Tournament: Tee Off for Tribal Sovereignty

NCAI Golf Tournament Fundraiser: Tee Off for Tribal Sovereignty

The Technology Task Force’s quarterly meetings provide a forum for Tribal leaders, technology professionals, and partner organizations to assess emerging technology policy issues and develop coordinated Tribal strategies. Sessions focus on the impacts of artificial intelligence, data centers, broadband, and spectrum, federal and state technology legislation, and related sovereignty concerns. The meetings support the development and vetting of resolutions, identify policy and regulatory priorities, and provide educational resources to help Tribal Nations evaluate the cultural, economic, environmental, energy, and infrastructure impacts of emerging technologies. The Taskforce also works to advance practical tools and frameworks that strengthen Tribal sovereignty and support informed decision-making regarding technology development and deployment.

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