USDA Southwest Regional Food Business Center Quarterly Webinar (July 2024)

The USDA Southwest Regional Food Business Center’s first quarterly webinar, “Leading with Equity: Tribal Food Sovereignty & Inclusive Engagement,” featured speakers from Local First Arizona and California Department of Food and Agriculture.

Speakers discussed best practices for incorporating Indigenous knowledge and highlighted the unintended consequences of policies and funding that do not consider Tribal interests or approaches. They suggested pathways to build communication, develop partnerships, and establish trust. Additionally, the speakers addressed the critical infrastructure needed for Tribal communities, such as new wells, aggregating and distributing facilities, food-to-market distribution, and technical assistance, including business and market development skills.