National Indian Child Care Association

The National Indian Child Care Association (NICCA) is the premier nationally organized grassroots alliance dedicated to strengthening Tribal child care and early learning programs across Indian Country. Based in Ramona, OK, NICCA provides comprehensive support, coordination, and advocacy for the 268 Tribal CCDF grantees representing Tribal communities nationwide. Since its establishment in 1993, the organization has been instrumental in delivering information, training, and resources to enhance the quality of child care services serving over 300,000 American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian children from more than 500 Federally recognized Tribes.

NICCA specializes in supporting Tribal governments operating federally-funded Child Care and Development Fund programs as well as those managing independently funded Tribal child care initiatives. The organization trains over 2,300 early education professionals annually, equipping them with skills and knowledge to deliver culturally relevant programming. NICCA's professional development offerings include specialized training sessions, virtual forums for program administrators, and study tours that connect practitioners across regions. The association promotes the design and implementation of programs tailored to the unique needs of individual Tribal communities, ensuring that child care services reflect cultural values and community priorities. Through leadership development, policy advocacy, and technical assistance, NICCA empowers Tribal governments to enhance the quality of life for Native children through education and community-centered solutions.