Federal pause on grants, loans could impact tribal programs

January 29, 2025

The Office of Management and Budget has ordered federal agencies to temporarily halt all financial assistance programs, affecting billions in funding for tribal nations. The pause, effective Jan. 28, impacts grants and loans across multiple agencies, including the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Indian Health Service. Tribal leaders and advocates warn the freeze could disrupt essential services. A coalition of nonprofits has filed a lawsuit challenging the order.

We provide the independent reporting that non-Native, extractive outlets often overlook. We give our communities the context and the facts they need to make informed decisions.

Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Founder and Editor in Chief

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we exist to illuminate tribal government decision-making for everyone who cares about transparency about Native issues. Because the consequences of restricted press freedom affect our communities every day, our trauma-informed reporting is rooted in a deep, firsthand expertise. Every gift helps keep the fire burning. A monthly contribution makes the biggest impact.