Last year’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) created new and exciting opportunities for tribal energy development. Indian Country energy projects can now access various tax credits that were previously unavailable to tribal governments and businesses, and there is far more potential for renewable energy project profitability. Initial provisions for the IRA’s Direct Pay tax credit program were released in June, but there are still many important questions about the program that are outstanding.

Make sure to stay current with the latest information on tax credits by attending the breakout session Powering Progress: Unveiling Direct Pay Changes for Tribes and Tribal Energy Projects on Tuesday, October 3rd and find out what steps your tribe can take to receive the credit payments and maximize energy project potential.

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Mark your calendars for funding opportunity deadlines in August and September. Stay informed about essential funding opportunities in solar energy, microgrids, and various forms of clean energy from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Energy.

EPA Solar for All Grant Competition
$7 billion
Notice of intent due Aug. 28 for tribes.

Underserved and Indigenous Community Microgrids
$14.7 million
Apply by Sept. 15.

Energy Future Grants
$27 million
Apply by Sept. 30.

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There’s still time to join Career Basics and qualify for the 2024 Leadership Summit! This free online program enhances career readiness and personal finance skills for Native American youth and young professionals aged 18-27.

Career Basics is designed to be most helpful for: Undergraduate students in their Junior and Senior years; Recent college graduates; Early career professionals (0-2 years experience); Young professionals looking to pivot careers. What You’ll Learn: Crafting your personal narrative Creating a budget and understanding personal finance Creating a resume and cover letter Interviewing and negotiating Intro to career pathways in economics and finance And more!

Complete the program by the end of 2023 to be eligible to apply for the 2024 Leadership Summit. The next Summit will be held in Hollywood, FL. Attendees will be staying in the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel for the duration of the Summit and Conference. Accepted applicants will receive funding that provides support for the costs associated with participation in the program, including travel/transportation, hotel costs, meals, conference registration fees, and the NAFOA Leadership Summit program fees. A $250 stipend to purchase business formal attire will also be provided

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Housing shortages have reached historic levels, not only in the State of Minnesota, but also across the country. As this crisis escalates, the challenge of labor shortages has become even more pronounced, impacting employers in every industry. In response to these pressing issues, Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures (MLCV) announced the opening of two projects in Onamia, MN – Red Willow Estates, an affordable housing project, and the Onamia Childcare Center, operated by Kidz Zone. MLCV commemorated the two projects with a grand opening ceremony.

Red Willow Estates is a 30-unit townhome community offering 22 two-bedroom, one- and one-half bath units, and 8 three-bedroom, one- and one-half bath units. All homes have a one- or two-car attached garage along with energy efficient features and appliances.

As a tribally owned organization, MLCV has continuously advocated for investment in the communities it serves. Affordable housing has been a key priority in the area as over 60 percent of the workforce commutes up to 50 miles daily resulting in approximately 72 percent of the jobs in the area being filled by outside residents.

By offering affordable housing options, Red Willow Estates aims to fulfill the need for a stable and secure housing supply. This project not only addresses the immediate demand for housing, but also supports the overall growth and prosperity of the Mille Lacs tribal economy.

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The Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians (LTBB), a federally recognized Indian Tribe, invites firms to submit a Request for Proposal to provide economic recovery and diversification services.

This work will take place with the collaborator of the LTBB Department of Commerce (DOC) and result in the creation of an Economic Diversification and Recovery Strategy.

Learn More & Apply at nafoa.org/jobs