Collaborating for Prosperity With 

American Indians and Alaska Natives

Rural Development Programs for Tribes, Tribal Families, 

Children, and Communities

USDA Rural Development Innovation Center

Together, America Prospers
From 2001 to 2018 USDA Rural Development 

invested more than $6.2 billion in Indian 

Country and Alaska.
USDA Rural Development places a high value on its relationship with Tribes, American Indians, and Alaska 

Natives. We are committed to increasing investment throughout Indian Country and Alaska. We are collaborating 

and partnering with Tribes to realize a brighter future for families, children, and Tribal communities. Through loans, 

grants, and technical assistance, Rural Development makes critical investments in infrastructure, schools, health 

clinics, housing, and businesses, to benefit Native families and communities across rural America.

Rural Development supports American Indians and Alaska Natives in holistic, sustainable, and culturally 

responsive ways. Every Tribal Nation has unique assets and faces distinct challenges. Maximizing the potential of 

these assets, and addressing local challenges, can only happen in an environment where relationships and trust 

provide a foundation for true partnership and collaboration.

Rural Development staff understand that the legal, regulatory, governmental structure, protocols, and culture are 

unique to each Tribal Nation. We recognize that Tribes are distinct. We strive to understand those distinctions and 

tailor the delivery of services to be responsive to each Tribe’s circumstances and vision for development.

Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives | 3 
USDA Rural Development 

Investments Benefitting American 

Indian/Alaska Native Communities

Fiscal Years 2001–2018

RURAL HOUSING AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES PROGRAMS

$3 billion

RURAL BUSINESS AND COOPERATIVE PROGRAMS

$415 million

RURAL UTILITIES PROGRAMS

$2.8 billion

Grand Total $6.2 billion

4 | Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives
Community Outreach & Technical Assistance

Community Capacity Investments

Regional Planning

Workforce Development

Native Youth Investments

Healthy, Affordable Food Access

Pathways to Homeownership

Safe, Healthy Homes

Supportive Multi-family Housing

Schools, Libraries & Tribal Colleges

Hospitals & Clinics

Public Safety Facilities

Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency

Water and Wastewater Systems

Rural Broadband & Electric Infrastructure

Business Technical Assistance

Business & Entrepreneur Financing

Microenterprise Development

Value-Added Agriculture

Rural Cooperative Development

Global Opportunities

Tribal Community & Economic Development

Tribal Community & Economic Development

Community

Collaborations

Individual and

Family Vitality

Facilities and

Infrastructure

Economic

Prosperity

Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives | 5 

USDA Rural Development is committed to Tribal-led 

community and economic development that respects 

Tribal sovereignty and honors Tribal self-determination 

to meet the needs of current and future generations. 

Priorities for our work with Tribes include:

• The well-being of individuals, families, children, 

and military veterans;

• Access to safe, affordable housing;

• Strong workforce development through 

sustainable economic development;

• Financing essential community facilities;

• Improving access to clean water and 

sanitation systems;

• Combating substance misuse;

• Financing affordable and reliable utility 

systems, including electric, telecommunications 

and broadband.

Through Rural Development’s programs, American 

Indians and Alaska Natives can access capital, 

expand markets, start and grow businesses, and 

improve food production and distribution. These 

efforts help Tribes create and sustain thriving 

communities, strong families, and healthy children 

who are well prepared to give back to their 

families, their community, and lay the foundation 

for future generations.

USDA Rural Development has experience in 

financing projects alongside Tribes and Tribal 

members within unique regulatory, legal, financial, 

and land tenure circumstances, including:

• Securing debt with various collateral options 

for projects on Trust lands and utilizing various 

revenue streams for security and debt repayment

• Delivering programs within the framework of 

unique Tribal ordinances, legal structures, and 

court jurisdictions that impact business, utility, and 

housing development. This includes navigating 

commercial, foreclosure and eviction codes and 

utilizing land leases and leasehold mortgages to 

secure debt

• Investing in, and collaborating with, Native 

Community Development Financial Institutions 

(CDFI) and other intermediary organizations to 

increase access to capital and technical assistance.

Although many of Rural Development’s programs 

were not specifically designed for Tribes—and 

statutory, regulatory, budget, and staff limitations 

can be challenging—we strive to forge strategic 

partnerships with Tribes to find creative solutions 

to such challenges, through ongoing collaboration, 

strong working relationships, thoughtful dialogue, 

consultation, and planning.

In this document, you will find detailed information 

on USDA Rural Development programs in the 

following categories:

• Individual and Family Vitality;

• Community Collaborations;

• Economic Prosperity;

• Infrastructure;

• Special Initiatives.

We look forward to 

collaborating for 

prosperity with you and 

your Tribal community.

Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives | 7 
Individual and 

Family Vitality

Housing, Education, 

Health Care, Public Safety, 

and Food Security

Healthy children and families are critical for vibrant Tribal communities. 

By helping Tribes provide economic and social opportunities, families 

and children can benefit and grow in safe, secure, and supportive 

communities. USDA Rural Development stands ready to partner with 

your Tribe to engage, develop, or revitalize your community so it can 

continue to be a home for the next generation. We work with Tribal 

leaders and Tribal staff so that members have:

• Housing security, homeownership opportunities and resources 

for the repair of existing housing;

• Access to healthcare;

• Native youth development and educational opportunities;

• Access to healthy foods.

Housing Programs

We provide:

• Single-family housing direct loans and loan guarantees to help lowand moderate-income American Indians and Alaska Natives buy safe, 

affordable housing in rural areas;

• Loans to very-low-income homeowners for home repairs, and grants 

for very-low-income senior citizen homeowners, age 62 or older, to 

remove health and safety hazards;

• Financing for affordable rental housing for very-low-, low-, and 

moderate-income residents, seniors, and people with disabilities. 

Many USDA-financed apartment complexes include rental assistance 

for very-low-income tenants to help them afford rent;

• Financing for housing for farm laborers and their families.

Homeownership Loans

Can help Tribal families buy an existing home, build a new one, 

or buy and prepare a lot for new construction. You can also use 

funds to refinance an existing home.

8 | Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives
Community Facilities Programs

We provide direct loans, loan guarantees, and grants for essential 

community facilities, such as:

• Child, youth, and senior care centers;

• Fire and police stations, emergency vehicles, and equipment;

• Hospitals, clinics, telemedicine services, and drug treatment and 

substance misuse facilities;

• Schools, Tribal colleges and universities, libraries, distance 

learning services;

• Tribal administration buildings, community centers, and more.

Food Security and Sovereignty

USDA Rural Development can provide Community Facilities loans and 

grants to help support community gardens, food distribution centers, 

and food banks. USDA Rural Development also offers cooperative 

grant programs that can support Tribal agricultural producers.

Additional USDA agencies and programs complement 

Rural Development’s programs, providing additional resources to 

farmers, ranchers, and businesses producing or processing food 

for domestic and international markets. USDA resources assist with 

land and production equipment, food processing equipment, and 

technical assistance for business and agricultural needs.

USDA programs for children, families, and the elderly include:

• The Food and Nutrition Service’s (FNS) food stamps—or SNAP 

(Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

• The FNS Summer Food Service Program for children to receive 

meals when school is out for the summer

• Rural Development partners with FNS to provide summer meals 

at sites across rural America.

Home Repair Grants and Loans

Can help very-low-income Tribal elders age 62 or older 

remove health and safety hazards from their homes.

“No resource is more 

vital to the continued 

existence and integrity 

of Indian Tribes than 

their children.”

—1978 Indian Child Welfare Act

Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives | 9 
Individual and Family Vitality

Success Stories

ONE STOP MORTGAGE DOCUMENTS 

MADE PASSAMAQUODDY 

HOMEOWNERSHIP IN MAINE 

POSSIBLE ON TRIBAL LANDS

Jacob and Terri Mumme of the Passamaquoddy Tribe officially became 

homeowners in Pleasant Point, Maine, marking the first time a family 

had purchased a home on Passamaquoddy Tribal lands using 

Rural Development’s home loan program after approval of the Tribe’s 

One-Stop Mortgage Documents.

These mortgage documents outline the process to be followed between 

USDA Rural Development, lenders, and the Tribe’s housing authority 

when providing homeownership loans on Tribal trust lands. The review 

and approval of the documents made financing homeownership 

through the USDA Rural Development program a possibility for Tribal 

individuals and families who want to use the program.

This process, and a Federal statute, ensures that the Tribe maintains 

ownership of the land in the event a homeowner cannot meet USDA 

Rural Development loan requirements. The process opens the doors 

of homeownership to potential homeowners on Tribal lands across 

the country.

The Mumme family is delighted to own its dream home, which has many 

amenities, including new siding, roof, windows, doors, flooring, insulation, 

and sheetrock, as well as a deck and a remodeled kitchen and bathroom.

TRIBAL ELDER GETS HELP WITH 

HOME REPAIRS IN CENTRAL 

OREGON

For half a century, Marilyn Wagner raised her children, grandchildren, 

and great grandchildren in a home on the Confederated Tribes of Warm 

Springs Reservation. Eventually, due to her limited income, she could 

no longer keep up with the aging home’s growing maintenance needs.

The kitchen plumbing had begun to leak, making the sink unusable. 

Dry rot had crept into the bathroom floor over the years. Additionally, 

the woodstove chimney was collapsing, and the tile ceiling around it 

was beginning to sag and leak.

Wagner contacted Warms Springs Tribal Credit Enterprise for a loan to 

cover the cost of the badly needed home repairs. She was delighted to 

learn she qualified for a grant from USDA Rural Development. Through 

a partnership with USDA, Warm Springs Tribal Credit Enterprise helped 

her complete an application for a home repair grant. These grants are 

available to very-low- income seniors age 62 or older, who cannot repay 

a repair loan, to remove health and safety hazards from their homes.

USDA awarded her a $6,840 grant to replace plumbing, the bathroom 

floor, ceiling tile, an entry door, and purchase a new chimney. The 

repairs were completed just as she made the final payment on her 

home mortgage.

Warm Springs Tribal Credit Enterprise and USDA Rural Development 

are continuing to work together to help more Tribal elders repair their 

homes on the Reservation.

10 | Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives
USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT 

IN MINNESOTA CULTIVATES 

PARTNERSHIPS WITH THE RED LAKE 

NATION FOCUSING ON WELL-BEING, 

YOUTH, AND EDUCATION

In Minnesota, USDA Rural Development has continued to cultivate 

partnerships with Tribes throughout the State. One trend that has 

emerged in many of the projects resulting from these partnerships is a 

focus on youth and education.

USDA Rural Development joined members of the Red Lake Nation 

to celebrate the grand opening of a new $11.3 million Tribal college 

facility, funded through the Community Facilities Direct Loan program. 

The 42,094-square-foot facility boasts a day care center to provide 

on-campus child care to single parents as they take classes. A kitchen 

was included to provide meals for both college students and day care 

children. Most importantly, the facility houses enough classroom space 

for up to 550 students. As a result, enrollment at the college was 

expected to grow from 130 students to about 200 students. Prior to 

completion, the college employed five people. Now it has the capacity 

to create 22 jobs for professors, administrators, cooks, day care staff, 

teachers, maintenance staff, and more. 

For years, USDA Rural Development has also helped finance other 

community-based projects with the Tribe, including a Tribal administration 

building, a fire station, a drug treatment center, a food preparation and 

distribution center, a community center, a garbage truck, solid waste 

equipment, fire trucks, and ambulances. These investments are a 

testament to the dedication and commitment of staff and Tribal leadership 

at Red Lake and the ongoing commitment of USDA Rural Development 

staff in Minnesota. Rural Development aims to foster similar working 

relationships, built on trust and shared vision, with additional Tribes. 

Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives | 11
Community 

Collaborations 

Planning and Community 

Development Investments 

Some Tribes may have more capacity to meet their planning and 

development goals than others. Rural Development can help 

American Indians and Alaska Natives explore opportunities to 

gain greater economic strength and access to additional planning 

resources. We offer:

• Technical assistance and funding for assessments, feasibility 

studies, and business planning

• Partnerships to support housing, food security, and agricultural 

systems, telecommunications, land preservation and 

restoration, business development, schools and Tribal colleges, 

health care, public safety, and other needs

• The newly created Rural Economic Development Initiative 

(REDI) to match Tribes and rural communities with planning 

assistance to invigorate Tribal and regional economic 

development plans.

“At Rural Development, we aim 

to ensure our programs and 

resources are responsive and 

tailored to the current needs of 

Tribes and Tribal members.”

–Tedd Buelow, Native American Coordinator, 

USDA Rural Development

Rural Business Development Grants

Federally recognized Tribes may apply for these competitive 

grants—typically ranging from $10,000 to $500,000—for 

development or expansion of rural Tribal businesses. Recipients 

may use the grants for targeted technical assistance, training, 

and more.

Rural Development also has many loan and grant programs that 

can help your Tribe with construction projects.

12 | Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives
Community Collaborations

Success Stories

NATIVE HOMEOWNERSHIP COALITION 

SOUTH DAKOTA

Tribes and Tribal housing providers and stakeholders in South 

Dakota created a Native Homeownership Coalition to increase 

homeownership opportunities for Native people and build strong and 

healthy communities.

The coalition is a collaboration of representatives from Tribes, Tribal 

housing providers, USDA Rural Development, other Federal and State 

agencies, the South Dakota Governor’s Office, non-profits, housing 

developers, lenders, and community development financial institutions 

(CDFIs).

Through the efforts of the coalition, many representatives from 

non-profits, Tribal housing entities, Tribal departments, and 

Community Development Financial Institutions, became certified to 

provide financial literacy training for Native clients. Today, training 

continues to help Tribal families learn about budgeting, savings, 

understanding and building credit, and planning for the future – critical 

knowledge for families working to achieve homeownership.

In 2018, through the ongoing advocacy of the coalition, along with 

the cooperation of USDA Rural Development staff, USDA announced 

a new pilot program to work with two Native CDFIs in South 

Dakota to provide an additional tool for financing homeownership 

opportunities on Tribal lands in South Dakota.

Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives | 13 
TRIBAL HEALTH CENTER 

CHOCTAW, MISSISSIPPI

USDA Rural Development partnered with Trustmark National Bank to 

provide a Community Facilities loan guarantee, along with direct loans from 

Rural Development, that helped the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians 

build a $55 million health center for Tribal communities in Mississippi and 

Tennessee. The project was developed through a public-private partnership 

facilitated by the Tribe, USDA, the U.S. Department of Health and 

Human Services, and Trustmark.

The Tribe needed to replace its former, aging healthcare facility to 

meet the critical healthcare needs of chronically underserved Tribal 

members. The new center includes a hospital, dental facility, treatment 

rooms and equipment, an emergency department, and behavioral, 

community, and public health services. Thanks to the new center, 

Tribal members have expanded access to healthcare services, such as 

nutrition and exercise classes to mitigate diabetes and obesity. Rates 

of those conditions in the Mississippi Band of Choctaw are higher than 

the U.S. average. The new center is also providing expanded access to 

programs to address both mental health and substance misuse issues 

impacting Tribal members. Additionally, the new center is helping meet 

demand for dental services, reducing wait times, and providing better 

overall dental care to the community.

Construction of the new healthcare center helped save about 315 local 

healthcare jobs and is expected to create about 90 more full-time jobs 

by 2020.

Community Facilities Loans and Grants

We have flexible, inexpensive financing tools to improve your Tribal community. We can help you build libraries, 

child care facilities, schools, curbs, gutters, and more, to make your community a better place to live. We 

provide direct loans and grants and also work with private lenders to offer loan guarantees in rural areas with 

populations up to 20,000.

14 | Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives
Economic 

Prosperity

Business Development, 

Job Creation, 

Workforce Development 

and Entrepreneurship

Economic prosperity is essential to ensuring that communities are 

self-sustaining, repopulating, and thriving economically for generations 

to come. USDA Rural Development programs help provide the capital, 

technical support, educational opportunities, and entrepreneurial skills 

that can start and grow businesses and create jobs in Tribal communities.

USDA Rural Development and our public and private partners are 

connecting Tribes, Tribal businesses, and Tribal members to the global 

economy by:

• Increasing access to broadband;

• Supporting business growth and development;

• Supporting Tribal workforce development and job opportunities;

• Facilitating sustainable renewable energy development;

• Developing regional food systems.

Access to capital is critical for business start-up and to keep 

entrepreneurship opportunities within reach. Job creation by small 

businesses provides economic prosperity and financial security for 

American Indians and Alaska Natives, their children, and families. 

USDA Rural Development programs and partnerships with non-profit 

lenders and the private sector help rural small businesses and their 

employees get started on this upward journey.

Rural Development also promotes the development of cooperatives 

to market and distribute agricultural products and supplies. Many 

cooperatives also provide products and services that are not 

agriculture-based, such as electricity, telecommunications, credit and 

financial services, housing, food, and hardware and building supplies. 

Rural Development helps form new cooperatives and improves the 

operations of existing ones through education, research, technical 

assistance, and funding.

Rural Development staff understand that the legal, regulatory, 

government infrastructure, and protocols for doing business are unique 

to each Tribal Nation. Our staff recognizes that Tribes are distinct and 

strive to be aware of each Tribal community’s history and context – the 

successes, the challenges, the priorities, and desired solutions. We 

then strive to be responsive with our program delivery and technical 

assistance.

We aim to work in collaboration with Tribes, Tribal businesses, and Tribal 

members to develop partnerships that improve capital access through:

• Financing and technical assistance for entrepreneurs through grants and 

loans to intermediaries and loan guarantees through approved lenders;

• Supporting workforce development;

• Increasing access to capital through Tribal CDFIs, community banks, 

and other lending institutions;

• Flexibility in underwriting loans and in determining adequate security 

for projects on Tribal Trust lands.

Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives | 15 
Economic Prosperity

Success Stories

NEW CORN MILL AND FOOD 

PRODUCTION FUEL BUSINESS 

GROWTH OF THE UTE MOUNTAIN 

UTE TRIBE IN COLORADO

The Ute Mountain Ute Tribe’s Farm & Ranch Enterprise generates 

revenue for Tribal farmers and ranchers and provides jobs to Tribal 

members. USDA Rural Development assisted the Tribal enterprise 

with Value-Added Producer Grants to explore converting yellow corn 

into “Bow & Arrow” brand cornmeal and market a new line of products. 

Eventually, due to the project’s success, the Tribe built a $4 million, 

state-of-the-art corn mill to produce and package cornmeal.

The mill produces and packages several varieties of Bow & Arrow 

Indian cornmeal and other corn products to area food manufacturers 

and retail outlets, while continuing to sustain jobs on the reservation for 

Tribal members.

Intermediary Relending

USDA Rural Development provides funds to local organizations, called “intermediaries,” which use the funds to offer loans 

for business startup, expansion, or community development projects.

These intermediaries may be able to help your Tribe and Tribal members with local business and development projects.

16 | Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives
VALUE-ADDED PRODUCER GRANTS 

SUPPORT TRIBAL BUSINESS 

ENTERPRISES IN RURAL WISCONSIN

Members of the Forest County Potawatomi Tribe have lived in Forest 

County, Wisconsin, since the late 1800s. But life today on the Forest 

County Potawatomi Reservation is very different from that of the elders 

that founded the community. By pursuing a diverse set of business models, 

the Forest County Potawatomi Tribe is now the largest employer in Forest 

County, and revenues from various Tribal enterprises are protecting the 

health, wellness, education, environment, and future of its people.

Tribal members have been working to further their mission of providing 

a natural, sustainable source of vegetables, fruits, greens, and animal 

proteins to the Tribal community. In 2018, USDA Rural Development 

provided the Tribe with a $153,377 Value-Added Producer Grant to support 

production of locally grown meat and eggs. The investment will also expand 

sales to help the farm stay financially viable and will help promote healthy 

food choices which will then lead to a healthier Tribal community. 

In addition, the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians is 

exploring ways to construct a fish processing facility. Tribal members started 

this process several years ago, when they received a $52,913 Value-Added 

Producer Grant to develop a feasibility study and a market analysis to 

determine if there was consumer demand for value-added fish products like 

fresh fish fillets, smoked fillets, fish spread, and herring caviar.

This study proved successful and, in 2019, the Tribe received a 

$28,292 Rural Business Development Grant from USDA to develop a 

business plan to build the facility, which is slated for completion in 2020. 

This project will be a cornerstone to increase economic prosperity not 

just for the Tribe but for the region as well.

Value-Added Producer Grants

These grants can help producers (including Tribes and Tribal 

corporations) get more revenue from their raw agricultural products by 

processing or marketing them.

Funds can be used for planning or for working capital to produce and 

market a value-added agricultural product.

Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives | 17 
NEW E-COMMERCE SITE AND 

ENTREPRENEURSHIP CLASSES 

SUPPORT NATIVE ARTISANS 

FROM THE VILLAGE OF EYAK IN 

CORDOVA, ALASKA

Alaska Native artisans like Gloria Cunningham have been selling their 

items at bazaars and by word of mouth for 15 years. Cunningham 

says she likes to make fun things that people enjoy, from the seal or 

sea otter furs that only Alaska Natives can work with in the State. She 

learned to sew and bead from her mother and aunt when she was 

10 years old and has taught her own children the same crafts. 

USDA Rural Development Rural Business Development Grant funds were 

used to support Tribal members in this very remote community, which is 

only accessible by boat and airplane. Funds were used to help strengthen 

and expand Eyak’s Native artisan e-commerce industry. The artisans’ new 

website – https://ilankaculturalcenter.com/fur-products/ – is hosted 

through the Ilanka Cultural Center. Additionally, Cunningham and 

other local artisans are now able to attend classes to strengthen their 

business skills. Examples of classes range from “Starting a Business 

on Demand,” “Intro to Accounting,” to “Cyber Security Awareness.”

USDA BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY 

LOAN GUARANTEE PROGRAM 

SUPPORTS ACCESS TO CAPITAL ON 

ST. PAUL ISLAND, ALASKA

Located 300 miles off the coast of Alaska in the central Bering Sea 

between the U.S. and Russia, St. Paul is the largest of the four volcanic 

islands that make up the Pribilof Islands. Fur seals far outnumber the 

human population of 500 on this 40 square mile island.

Working with its lending partner, Alaska Growth Capital, USDA 

Rural Development provided a Business and Industry loan guarantee 

for working capital to support Tanadgusix Corporation’s (TDX) on-island 

business activities. 

TDX is the village corporation of St. Paul created under the Alaska 

Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971. TDX works to protect and 

preserve the Aleut lands and culture while contributing to the economic 

well-being of its shareholders and the people of St. Paul Island. 

TDX is engaged in many economic activities, including tourism, 

alternative energy development, electric utilities, satellite technologies, 

environmental remediation, and maritime industries.

18 | Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives
Utilities 

Infrastructure

Water, Electricity, Broadband, 

E-connectivity and 

Telecommunications

USDA Rural Development has programs to help build and 

improve infrastructure for Tribal communities. Assistance can 

be provided directly to the Tribe, through Tribal utilities, and in 

partnership with other eligible applicants that provide drinking 

water, waste treatment, electricity, telecommunications, and 

broadband services.

Infrastructure plays a critical role in helping to expand 

economic opportunities and improve the quality of life for 

American Indians and Alaska Natives.

Successive Farm Bills have provided Rural Development 

with new authorities and tools to make it easier and more 

affordable to finance utilities improvements on Tribal lands. 

One of these authorities is the “Substantially Underserved 

Trust Area” provisions, which is commonly referred to as 

SUTA. We encourage Tribal leaders and Tribal staff to explore 

SUTA eligibility with USDA Rural Development.

Utilities programs connect rural residents to the global 

economy by:

• Increasing access to broadband and 21st century 

telecommunications services

• Developing reliable and affordable rural water and 

wastewater systems

• Financing reliable and affordable electric systems

• Working to integrate electric smart-grid technologies.

Broadband Programs

We have broadband loans, loan guarantees, and grants 

that can help your rural Tribe build and improve high-speed 

broadband systems.

Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives | 19 
Water and Environmental Programs

We provide loans, grants, and loan guarantees for drinking water, sanitary sewer, solid 

waste, and storm drainage facilities in rural areas of up to 10,000 people. Federally 

recognized Tribes are eligible to apply directly for assistance. Technical assistance 

and training grants may also be available to help Tribal communities identify and 

evaluate solutions to water and wastewater challenges.

Electric Programs

We provide loans and loan guarantees to construct or improve electric distribution, 

transmission, and generation facilities in rural areas. We also provide funding to 

support demand-side management, energy efficiency and conservation programs, 

and on- and off-grid renewable energy systems.

Broadband and Telecommunications Programs

We work to improve the quality of life in rural communities by increasing e-connectivity 

through financing for rural broadband and telecommunications infrastructure. 

Our programs offer access to affordable, reliable, advanced broadband and 

telecommunications services comparable to those available in urbanized areas. 

These improvements help American Indians and Alaska Natives benefit from better 

educational opportunities, health care, safety and security, and, ultimately, improved 

economic conditions and employment opportunities.

Water and Environmental Programs

We provide funding to Tribes for water, waste water, and solid waste 

disposal systems in rural areas of up to 10,000 people and technical 

assistance for financially distressed Tribal communities with water and 

waste disposal problems.

We also provide Rural Alaska Village Grants to provide remote Alaska 

Native Villages with safe, reliable water and waste disposal.

20 | Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives
Utilities Infrastructure

Success Stories

HOPI TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. 

RECEIVES TELECOM LOAN TO 

BRING FIBER TO THE HOME ON 

TRIBAL LANDS

In August 2018, USDA Rural Development announced a 

$5.8 million telecommunications loan to Hopi Telecommunications, 

Inc. to construct state-of-the-art fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) 

systems in the Keams Canyon, Kykotsmovi, and Polacca 

exchanges on the Hopi Reservation in northern Arizona. 

It is anticipated that 650 Tribal members will be placed on the 

high-speed FTTP system as a result of these latest improvements. 

Hopi Telecom and USDA have a long and productive shared 

history, including multiple loan and grant investments. This most 

recent investment will bring blazing fast e-connectivity to the 

remote villages throughout the rolling Hopi landscape, unlocking 

economic, educational, and cultural opportunities for the Tribe 

and its members.

“Treat the earth well. It was not 

given to you by your parents – it was 

loaned to you by your children.”

—Tribal proverb

Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives | 21 
CHOCTAW LANGUAGE THRIVES 

IN SCHOOL AND ONLINE

Of the hundreds of native languages that existed in North America just 

a few centuries ago, today only 169 still have documented speakers 

according to a 2006-2010 American Community Survey. Additionally, 

according to the Endangered Language Catalogue funded by the 

National Science Foundation, only 20 percent of the surviving Tribal 

languages are still being learned by children.

Recognizing the challenges of passing down their native tongue, in 

1998, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma established the School of 

Choctaw Language, or Chahta Anumpa Aiikhvna, to promote and 

preserve Choctaw language, history, and culture. At first, the language 

program consisted of a single class, which was taught via satellite at 

the University of Oklahoma. Though the program has expanded to 

touch every county throughout Choctaw Nation, outdated equipment 

and teacher shortages have impeded growth. “It was difficult for the 

students to see the language teachers through video. The quality was 

very poor and needed to be updated,” said Technology Coordinator 

John Wallace.

A few years ago, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma received a 

$263,384 Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) grant from the 

USDA Rural Development that the school used to enhance the distance 

learning technology at 62 learning sites, including 43 high schools, five 

colleges, and 14 Head Start locations. With high-definition dual video 

cameras and monitors, teachers can now broadcast high-quality video 

content to thousands of students throughout southeastern Oklahoma. 

The school can also record and save these lessons for future use, adding 

to their virtual language library and improving at-home accessibility.

Since receiving the grant, the number of high school students 

participating in the language program has increased by approximately 

6 percent, while college student enrollment has increased by 52 percent. 

With the continued support of Tribal members and Federal partners like 

USDA, Chahta Anumpa Aiikhvna is well on its way to achieving its goal 

of sharing the Choc-taw language with everyone that wants to learn, 

including Tribal and non-Tribal students alike.

22 | Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives
Special 

Initiatives

Meeting Economic, 

Educational, Social, and 

Educational Challenges 

in Indian Country

Rural Economic Development Innovation Initiative

Through the Rural Economic Development Innovation (REDI) Initiative, 

47 Tribes, communities, and regions will be paired with 1 of 4 partner 

organizations that will provide free technical assistance for up to 2 years 

to help rural Tribes, towns, and regions create and implement economic 

development plans. USDA awarded $1.2 million in cooperative agreements 

to these partners in September 2018 to enable the partners to provide free 

technical assistance.

Helping Tribes and Rural Communities 

Fight Substance Misuse

No corner of our country has gone untouched by the substance misuse 

crisis, but the impact of this issue on many Tribes, small towns, and rural 

places has been particularly significant. USDA is committed to strong 

partnerships with rural communities through the presence of our staff, as 

well as through programmatic support.

The Rural Development Innovation Center 

The Rural Development Innovation Center’s mission to identify best practices 

and bring continuous improvement in program delivery to enhance the quality 

of life in rural communities. The Center works to transform rural communities 

through strategic partnerships, data analytics, regulations management, and 

enterprise risk management. To ensure Rural Development’s programs and 

assistance are responsive to Tribal needs, our Native American Coordinator 

and associated efforts are housed within the Innovation Center.

Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives | 23
Components of Success

Tribes and Rural Development

USDA Rural Development and our programs are unique 

compared to many Federal agencies and programs that 

Tribes more frequently use. Rural Development functions 

likes a development bank, providing a majority of its 

program support through direct and guaranteed loans. 

Only a small fraction of our support is provided through 

grants and direct technical assistance. Grant and technical 

assistance resources are prioritized for projects in areas of 

the greatest need.

Some Tribes are interested in using Rural Development’s 

programs and have sufficient resources to attract capital 

from conventional lenders or can finance projects with their 

own resources. In such cases, Tribes might experience 

challenges meeting the “need for credit” test that is a 

part of many Rural Development programs. Keep in mind 

that if Rural Development cannot help finance a project 

with grants, or with direct loans, loan guarantees may 

be available. Additionally, we can also provide direct 

loans and loan guarantees, alongside capital from other 

investors. Whenever possible, Rural Development looks to 

co-finance projects through public-private partnerships.

Rural Development staff are trained to work with applicants 

to determine if they meet the “need for credit” test and 

if they have sufficient revenue streams (existing and 

proposed) to safely and affordably incur debt. This type of 

underwriting takes patience, specialized knowledge, and 

trust between Tribes and Rural Development.

As a Federal lender, Rural Development staff will 

work alongside Tribal staff to gather sufficient financial 

information regarding a Tribe’s assets and financial 

health, to make prudent and reasonable lending decisions. 

This includes gathering and analyzing available audit 

information, financial statements, reporting histories, and 

documenting existing revenue streams – including gaming 

and other sources of Tribal revenue. Private lenders will 

likely employ similar underwriting protocols when they are 

using Rural Development’s loan guarantee programs.

As with all Federal programs, Rural Development’s loan 

and grant programs have paperwork and forms that Tribes 

will need to complete. In addition to forms, depending 

on the nature of the project, Tribes can expect to submit 

architectural and engineering designs, contracting 

documents, Tribal codes and ordinances, land leases, and 

loan and/or grant agreements. Tribes will also be subject 

to certain USDA Rural Development civil rights compliance 

requirements for each project.

All Rural Development programs are governed by statutory 

and regulatory requirements. In certain circumstances, 

Rural Development regulations that are not statutorily 

required can be waived by the Administrators of the 

Rural Utilities Service, the Rural Housing Service, and 

the Rural Business-Cooperative Service. Tribes are 

encouraged to request flexibility throughout the underwriting 

process that considers the unique context of the Tribe 

and each project. Tribes are also encouraged to explore 

waivers when appropriate.

Tribes should also expect varying degrees of Tribal-specific 

expertise from local Rural Development staff, based 

on individual experience, training, and time within a 

given position. 

We encourage Tribes to remember that behind each 

transition, there will remain consistency within program 

regulations. We encourage Tribes to build relationships with 

program specialists and program directors, State Directors, 

Rural Development’s Native American Coordinators, and 

personnel within USDA’s Office of Tribal Relations, so that 

we can continue to provide the best service possible.

Our goal is to ensure that when Tribes are ready to use 

Rural Development’s programs, they are met by willing 

and able Rural Development personnel. We strive to 

partner with Tribes to meet their current development 

needs in concert with partners in other Federal agencies, 

lenders, and the broader rural and Tribal development 

finance community.

Rural Development staff continuously build upon an array 

of experiences that help us better deliver our programs 

throughout Indian Country and Alaska. Our staff is building 

a growing library of resources and documents to help 

improve Tribes’ access to our programs.

Please visit rd.usda.gov to browse information on 

our programs and to find contact information for Rural 

Development State Directors and staff that can build 

strong bridges to our programs and resources. Additional 

contact information is also included later in this document.

24 | Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives
Frequently Asked Questions

These answers are a starting point. We encourage you 

to contact the USDA Rural Development American Indian/ 

Alaska Native coordinator in your State:

Web: rd.usda.gov

E-Mail: AIAN@wdc.usda.gov

Phone: (800) 670-6553 (toll-free)

Why is USDA Rural Development interested 

in my Tribal community?

Rural Development is committed to strengthening 

American Indian and Alaska Native communities. We have 

many financial programs to assist eligible Tribes, and we 

aim to increase Tribal participation in Rural Development 

programs. Much of Indian Country is also located in rural 

areas, so consider whether USDA can help you reach your 

goals. Staff is available to help understand program details 

and how to access them.

Who can apply for Rural Development loans 

and grants?

Most of our programs are available to applicants in areas 

designated as “rural.” Under law, the definition of “rural 

area” is different for each program. For example, generally, 

housing programs are available in communities of up to 

35,000 in population; business programs are available 

in communities of up to 50,000 people; community 

facilities programs are available in communities of up to 

20,000 people; and most utilities programs are available 

in rural communities of up to 10,000 people. We work in 

partnership with Tribal governments, incorporated Tribal 

businesses, and Tribal cooperatives depending on the 

program of interest.

What types of loan programs does 

Rural Development offer?

Our loan programs address community needs, such as 

water and sewer systems, electricity, telecommunications, 

businesses, renewable energy, and housing. For example, 

our Community Facilities program funds fire and police 

stations, healthcare facilities, community centers, libraries, 

and other essential facilities. Rural Development also 

provides loans for homeownership and home repair.

How can USDA Rural Development address my 

Tribe’s specific needs?

Rural Development has funding available specifically for 

federally recognized Tribes, Alaska Native Villages, and 

Tribal colleges. USDA Rural Development also has an 

American Indian/Alaska Native Coordinator in each State 

with federally or State recognized Tribes to help Tribes 

access our programs and resources. These coordinators, 

and other Rural Development specialists, are available to 

help with applications and other requirements to obtain 

funding and technical assistance.

Why are you reaching out to the American 

Indian/Alaska Native community now?

USDA Rural Development has successfully worked 

with Tribal communities for decades. However, we are 

constantly looking to improve and build upon that history. 

With a portfolio of more than $213 billion, we are well 

suited and honored to assist in fulfilling our commitment to 

support Tribal families.

Do you have assistance for military veterans?

Yes. The Department of Agriculture and USDA Rural 

Development are committed to helping veterans transition 

back home and find meaningful work in agribusiness, 

as a farmer or rancher, or at USDA. USDA’s Office of 

the Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison was created to 

provide information, resources, and support for active duty 

military and veterans interested in agriculture. The office 

has the authority to facilitate formal relationships between 

USDA, other government agencies, and non-profits to 

strengthen USDA support for veterans.

How do I get started? Where can I get 

more information?

In each State that serves federally or State recognized 

Tribes, USDA Rural Development American Indian/Alaska 

Native Coordinators are available to help Tribal customers 

learn about and access our programs and resources.

Visit rd.usda.gov or call (800) 670-6553 

to learn more.

Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives | 25 
USDA Rural Development State Offices

Alabama 

Montgomery, AL 

(334) 279-3400

Idaho

Boise, ID

(208) 378-5623

Minnesota

St. Paul, MN 

(651) 602-7800

North Dakota

Bismarck, ND 

(701) 530-2037

Utah

Salt Lake City, UT 

(801) 524-4320

Alaska 

Palmer, AK 

(907) 761-7705

Illinois 

Champaign, IL 

(217) 403-6200

Mississippi 

Jackson, MS 

(601) 965-4316

Ohio

Columbus, OH 

(614) 255-2500

VermontNew Hampshire 

Montpelier, VT 

(802) 828-6000

Arizona 

Phoenix, AZ 

(602) 280-8717

Indiana 

Indianapolis, IN 

(317) 290-3100

Missouri 

Columbia, MO 

(573) 876-0976

Oklahoma

Stillwater, OK 

(405) 742-1000

Virginia

Richmond, VA 

(804) 287-1552

Arkansas 

Little Rock, AR 

(501) 301-3200

Iowa

Des Moines, IA 

(515) 284-4663

Montana 

Bozeman, MT 

(406) 585-2580

Oregon

Portland, OR 

(503) 414-3300

Washington

Olympia, WA 

(360) 704-7740

California

Davis, CA

(530) 792-5800

Kansas 

Topeka, KS 

(785) 271-2700

Nebraska 

Lincoln, NE 

(402) 437-5551

Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, PA 

(717) 237-2299

West Virginia

Morgantown, WV 

(304) 284-4860

Colorado

Lakewood, CO

(720) 544-2915

Kentucky 

Lexington, KY 

(859) 224-7300

Nevada

Carson City, NV 

(775) 887-1222

Puerto Rico

San Juan, PR 

(787) 766-5095

Wisconsin

Stevens Point, WI 

(715) 345-7600

Delaware- Maryland

Dover, DE 

(302) 857-3580

Louisiana 

Alexandria, LA 

(318) 473-7921

New Jersey

Mt. Laurel, NJ 

(856) 787-7700

South Carolina

Columbia, SC 

(803) 765-5163

Wyoming

Casper, WY 

(307) 233-6700

Florida-Virgin Islands 

Gainesville, FL 

(352) 338-3402

Maine

Bangor, ME 

(207) 990-9160

New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM 

(505) 761-4950

South Dakota

Huron, SD 

(605) 352-1100

Georgia

Athens, GA 

(706) 546-2162

Mass.-Rhode 

Island-Connecticut

Amherst, MA 

(413) 253-4300

New York

Syracuse, NY 

(315) 477-6400

Tennessee

Nashville, TN 

(615) 783-1300

Hawaii-Western Pacific

Hilo, HI

(808) 933-8380

Michigan

East Lansing, MI

(517) 324-5190

North Carolina 

Raleigh, NC 

(919) 873-2000

Texas

Temple, TX 

(254) 742-1084

Tedd Buelow

Native American Coordinator

USDA Rural Development

Denver Federal Center Building 56 Room 2300

Denver, CO 80225

Voice: (720) 544-2911

AIAN@wdc.usda.gov

26 | Collaborating for Prosperity with American Indians and Alaska Natives
In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil 

rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions 

participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on 

race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual 

orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public 

assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any 

program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies 

and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information 

(e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the 

responsible Agency or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact 

USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information 

may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint 

Form, AD-3027, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html and at 

any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information 

requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your 

completed form or letter to USDA by:

(1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture,

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights,

1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; 

(2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or

(3) email: program.intake@usda.gov (link sends e-mail).

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Mention of a trade name or brand name does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by 

USDA over similar products not named.

Contact us to learn more at:

USDA Rural Development

National Office Mail Stop 0107

1400 Independence Avenue SW Washington, DC 20250-0107

Web: rd.usda.gov

E-Mail: AIAN@wdc.usda.gov

Phone: (800) 670-6553 (toll-free)

RD-19004

September 2019