Tribal College Initiative Grants

The Tribal College Initiative Grants program is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development to support the unique role of 1994 Land Grant Institutions, also known as Tribal Colleges. These institutions were designated under the Agricultural Act of 2014 to serve Native American communities through higher education, workforce development, and cultural preservation. The program recognizes the importance of educational infrastructure in tribal communities and aims to expand opportunities for students by enhancing the facilities and resources available at these colleges. The purpose of the program is to provide financial support for capital improvements and the purchase of essential equipment that enhances learning and community access to education. By investing in physical infrastructure and educational resources, the grants help Tribal Colleges modernize their facilities, expand capacity, and better serve both enrolled students and the broader community. This support aligns with USDA’s broader mission of strengthening rural communities by providing access to education and critical community services. Funding can be used across a broad scope of projects. Eligible expenditures include the construction, renovation, or improvement of facilities such as classrooms, laboratories, libraries, dormitories, and community gathering spaces. Grants may also be used to purchase equipment, including vehicles and major instructional tools that improve academic delivery. Additionally, the program permits support for community-focused educational and cultural projects that strengthen the role of Tribal Colleges as centers of learning and cultural heritage preservation. The program offers grants of up to $250,000 per land grant institution. USDA allows the funding to cover up to 95 percent of a project’s cost, requiring applicants to provide a 5 percent match. Matching contributions may come from the college itself or through partnerships with federal, state, local, nonprofit, or private entities, encouraging collaboration and leveraging of resources. This cost-share requirement ensures that institutions and partners are invested in the long-term sustainability of funded projects. Eligibility is strictly limited to Tribal Colleges designated in Section 7402 of the Agricultural Act of 2014. These institutions are located across the United States and were created to expand access to higher education for Native American students. The program is not open to other types of organizations, governments, or individuals. This exclusive eligibility ensures that funding is directed to institutions that provide culturally relevant and community-based education in tribal settings. Applications are accepted year-round through USDA Rural Development’s local offices. Each Tribal College must work with its respective state office to submit an application that includes the necessary forms, certifications, and supporting documentation as outlined in program guidance. USDA Rural Development staff are available at state and local offices to answer questions, provide technical assistance, and guide applicants through the submission process. Program regulations are governed by 7 U.S.C. 1926, 7 CFR 3570 Subpart B, and RD Instruction 3570-B. Applicants are advised to consult these sources to ensure compliance with requirements. Because the program accepts applications continuously, there is no single annual deadline. This structure provides flexibility to Tribal Colleges, allowing them to apply when projects are ready for development. However, as with all USDA Rural Development programs, institutions are encouraged to begin planning early and consult with their local offices well in advance to align funding requests with institutional priorities and community needs.