Tribal Self-Governance Certificate Program

Supporting Scalable & Proven Models, Building Legal Literacy

About the TSG Certificate Program

Authority without understanding leaves opportunity unrealized.

Tribal Nations have authority to administer federal programs, manage lands and resources, and redesign systems to better serve their communities. Yet moving from interest to implementation often requires targeted support in the earliest stages and realizing this potential requires communities that understand legal frameworks, funding systems, and practical strategies to implement Self-Governance effectively.

TSG helps Tribal Nations overcome these barriers by building the planning, readiness, and institutional capacity needed to redesign the systems. Through the Tribal Self- Governance Certificate Program, technical assistance, and direct support, TSG helps Tribal communities assess opportunities, work with federal agencies, and enter negotiations on equal footing.

TSG created the Certificate Program to equip leaders and practitioners with knowledge and tools to transform Self-Governance authority into tangible outcomes: stronger health systems, resilient economies, responsible stewardship of lands and waters, and improved public services. This self-paced online program develops practical expertise in federal Indian policy, Self- Governance agreements, funding systems, and program implementation, equipping leaders to navigate complex systems and deliver community-driven solutions.

Questions? Contact TSG Executive Director Jay Spaan via email at JayS@TribalSelfGov.org.

TSG Certificate Program Overview

This program is 10-module, self-paced, online certification program provides a comprehensive self-governance foundation in seven key areas.

Investment in Tribal Self-Governance is
Systems Change Work

Investing in the TSG Certificate Program strengthens capacity and legal literacy across Tribal communities—one of the most effective ways to drive lasting systems change. Supporting this effort can expand scholarships so more Tribal officials can access the program and help us to develop new curriculum and modules that reach additional sectors and communities. A critical step in expanding use of Self-Governance authority is providing planning and negotiation grants that allow Tribal communities to assess opportunities, build internal readiness, and engage federal partners on equal footing. TSG seeks to offer direct grants to Tribal communities to conduct legal analysis, prepare internally, and engage federal partners with confidence. Philanthropic investment can accelerate this progress by funding the grants initiative.

For national, regional and family foundations committed to social impact, equity, economic mobility and sustainability in government, supporting the TSG Certificate Program means: