September 18, 2025

Dear USET/USET SPF Family,

USET is requesting proposals from its membership for the third round of projects to support food sovereignty and conservation projects. The purpose of this funding is to promote implementation, outreach, and partnerships related to the conservation of soil, water, and wildlife and pollinator habitat. Project proposals must include an element of engagement with the Natural Resources Conservation Service on a local, state, or regional level. 

Priority will be given to proposals that connect cultural practices and knowledge with the project activities AND include an outreach component to the USET membership. Tribal Nations may submit up to two proposals with a limit of one proposal per project category. 

Categories include: Youth, Pilot Conservation, Intermediate Conservation, and Advanced Conservation. Funding ranges from $25,000 - $120,000 per project. 

Proposals are due by 3:00 PM CT on October 17, 2025. 

Proposals will be evaluated for their potential to advance food sovereignty, conservation, and/or education and outreach among USET member Tribal Nations. Selected projects will be awarded a contract identifying milestones and payment schedules.

For more information, contact Lea Zeise, OERM Assistant Director, at lzeise@usetinc.org.

Established in 1969, the United South and Eastern Tribes, Inc. (USET) is a non-profit, inter-Tribal organization serving thirty-three (33) federally recognized Tribal Nations from the Northeastern Woodlands to the Everglades and across the Gulf of Mexico. USET is dedicated to enhancing the development of Tribal Nations, improving the capabilities of Tribal governments, and improving the quality of life for Indian people through a variety of technical and supportive programmatic services.