Fiscal Year 2025 was a year marked by both significant challenges and meaningful progress for the Inter- Tribal Council of Michigan. As federal priorities shifted under the new administration, our organization worked diligently to adapt while continuing to uphold our commitment to serving the 12 federally recognized tribes of Michigan. Throughout the year, ITCMI placed a strong emphasis on strengthening communication, collaboration, and coordination among tribal partners, federal agencies, and the State of Michigan. By increasing dialogue and fostering stronger working relationships, we have been able to better advocate for tribal priorities and ensure that tribal voices remain represented.
The revocation of more than $23 million in United States Environmental Protection Agency grant funding created substantial obstacles for tribal communities and programs across the region. Despite these setbacks, ITCMI remained steadfast in its mission to act as a forum for member tribes and to advocate for programs and policies that improve the economy, education, health, and overall quality of life for Michigan’s Native American communities.
Throughout the year, we also witnessed important advancements in several key areas. Our efforts supporting food sovereignty initiatives continued to grow, strengthening tribal self-sufficiency, cultural preservation, and community health. Increased collaboration between tribes, local producers, community partners, and state agencies helped expand opportunities to address food access and promote long-term sustainability.
In addition, ITCMI established Veteran Services during Fiscal Year 2025, helping ensure that Native veterans and their families receive the resources, recognition, and support they deserve through continued outreach and enhanced partnerships with tribal and state service providers.
ITCMI successfully administered and distributed grant funding through core programs including Behavioral Health, Health Education, Maternal and Early Childhood Services, Environmental, and Head Start. These programs remain vital to improving the overall health, wellness, and future opportunities of Native communities throughout Michigan. We continue to be committed to providing technical assistance to member tribes through collaboration, program support, and assistance in the development of tribal regulations, ordinances, and policies. The strengthened communication between ITCMI staff, tribal partners, and agencies within the State of Michigan has further enhanced our ability to respond to community needs and provide meaningful support to tribal nations.
As an organization established by and for the tribes of Michigan, the Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan, Inc. remains dedicated to strengthening tribal sovereignty through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, advocacy, and continued partnership building. We are proud of the resilience demonstrated by our tribal communities and staff throughout this fiscal year, and we remain focused on building a stronger future grounded in sovereignty, collaboration, communication, and service.
The Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan continues to work closely with the 12 federally recognized tribes in Michigan to develop new resources, coordinate events, share information, and strengthen connections among our programs, tribal communities, and partners. To learn more about the agency and access our
social media platforms, I encourage everyone to visit our website at www.itcmi.org.
Chi Miigwetch,
Clayton Kincheloe
Executive Director
Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan, Inc.