NAFOA: 5 Things You Need to Know This Week (July 13, 2026)

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The NAFOA Institute attended UNITY’s 50th Anniversary Conference this past weekend in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The NAFOA team connected with Native youth to highlight upcoming opportunities within our young professional programs. From left: Bettina Gonzalez, Communications Director; and Jaycee Salling, Program Specialist. Photo courtesy NAFOA

5 Things You Need to Know This Week (July 13, 2026)

Due Today! Comments on OMB’s Proposed Federal Financial Assistance Rule

Monday, July 13, 2026

Source: NAFOA

nafoa.org

1. ACTION ALERT

Submit Comments on OMB’s Proposed Federal Financial Assistance Rule by July 13

On May 29, 2026, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) published a proposed rule, “Regulation for Federal Financial Assistance” (OMB-2026-0034), that would fundamentally overhaul the Uniform Guidance governing federal grants, cooperative agreements, and financial assistance awards, including those made to Tribal Nations. If finalized as written, the rule takes effect October 1, 2026.

Submit Your Tribe’s Comments — Use NAFOA’s Template Letter
Individual Tribal comments strengthen the administrative record. We strongly encourage every Member Tribe to file its own comment. To assist, NAFOA has prepared a ready-to-use two-page template letter that covers all key concerns and can be customized to describe your Tribe’s specific programs, services, and impacts.

How to Use NAFOA’s Template Letter

Download the template letter: https://go.nafoa.org/2026OMB-TribalLetter
Go to File > Download > Microsoft Word (.docx)
Replace all [TRIBE NAME] and [TRIBAL LEADER NAME AND TITLE] placeholders, and add your Tribe’s letterhead.
Customize the letter to describe your Tribe’s specific concerns or potential impacts, or keep the template letter as is.

How to Submit Your Comments

Go to regulations.gov.
Search for Docket ID: OMB-2026-0034.
Click “Comment” and upload your completed letter.
Submit no later than 11:59 pm Eastern on July 13, 2026.

Continue Reading the Alert

2. CONFERENCE

Santa Fe Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss

Join us for #NAFOAFall2026 at the Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder on September 21-22, 2026, for two impactful days of networking, conversations, and insights. While in Santa Fe, take some time to explore the area’s local restaurants, shops, and outdoor spaces, and learn about the rich Tribal history and Native cultures that shape the region.

3. MUST WATCH

America’s 250th Semiquincentennial Commemoration: An Indigenous Perspective on the Story of America

Source: United South and Eastern Tribes Inc. Learn More from USET

4. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

Indian Affairs Seeks Applications for Tribal Tourism Grants

The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs announced it is soliciting applications for $2.4 million in Tribal Tourism Grants to support tribes in expanding tourism visibility and driving increased visitation to tribal destinations.

Grants, ranging in value from $200,000 to $300,000 each, will be awarded to 10 tribes or tribal organizations to facilitate, promote, and enhance tourism offerings. These efforts strengthen destination positioning, drive visitation, and support tribal participation in the tourism industry, contributing to sustainable economic growth and community benefits.

Proposals must be submitted to grants.gov by August 7, 2026

Source: Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Department of the Interior Learn More & Apply

5. JOB

Director of Lending Operations, Coyote Valley Casino Resort

The Director of Lending Operations provides executive leadership over the organization’s financial technology operations, with primary responsibility for directing, managing, and overseeing the lending program, including online and technology‑enabled lending activities. This position is accountable for implementing, administering, and overseeing lending operations to ensure full compliance with all applicable federal, state, tribal, and regulatory requirements, including consumer protection laws, fair lending standards, and data privacy regulations.

Learn More & Apply at nafoa.org/jobs