USET member Tribal Nations have cared for their communities and environments since time immemorial. This wisdom and these invaluable best practices have been passed down through the generations fostering a unique relationship among each other and all living things. This advances a deep connection with the environment, providing holistic health approaches, and cultivates sustainable economic development.

USET presents an integrated approach to Tribal Sovereignty and Self-determination through the programmatic lens of our Offices of Environmental Resource Management, Economic Development, and Tribal Public Health. This conference hosts learning sessions for Tribal Leadership and staff to engage in a collaborative setting to share knowledge, wisdom, and innovation to enhance our collective strength and impact.

When

The conference begins on June 15 at 12:00 pm and ends on June 17 at 4:30 pm.

Where

Loews Nashville Hotel at Vanderbilt Plaza, 2100 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203

A Hotel Room Block has been negotiated for this event.  The discounted room rate is $229.00 + taxes per night. The deadline for the room block is Friday, May 8, 2026.

To make your reservation, please call 800-336-3335 or connect using this link: Loews Nashville Hotel at Vanderbilt Plaza. If you have any issues making your reservation, please contact BPCSupport@usetinc.org.

Transportation to/from the Hotel: The hotel does not provide a shuttle service. The Nashville BNA Airport does have taxis and ride shares that will easily transport you to/from the hotel.

Parking: Information will be shared as soon as possible.

Travel stipends

USET provides travel stipends for attendees designated by a USET member Tribal Nation to attend this event. The Tribal Nation will receive a stipend on your behalf to offset the cost of travel. Stipends are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and registration is required to attend the conference. A Travel Stipend Request Form will be released shortly. If you have any questions or concerns, please email BPC@usetinc.org.

Who should attend

USET member Tribal Nation Leaders, staff, committee members, volunteers, and citizens who can benefit in the exchange of information, such as:

• USET Member Tribal Nation Leaders
• USET Member Tribal Health Staff: Health directors, clinic staff, diabetes coordinators, behavioral health, social services personnel, emergency services personnel, and public health professionals.
• USET Member Tribal Economic Development Staff: Economic and Development Directors, Enterprise leaders, Community Development professionals
• USET Member Tribal Natural Resources/Environmental Program Staff: Natural resource managers, water and wastewater utility professionals, agriculture program staff and producers, cultural resource managers, climate adaptation and resiliency staff, school and childcare facilities managers, and infrastructure and community development planners.

Goals

1. To provide collaborative spaces for USET member Tribal Nation Leaders and staff to share knowledge, skills, resources, and fortify relationships.
2. To promote USET foundational pillars, which support USET member Tribal Nations in strengthening communities of practice.
3. To provide innovative support service through cross-sectional tracks.
4. To ensure the health, well-being, and self-determination of present and future generations.

Tracks

The USET Best Practices Conference tracks are designed to provide a diverse and comprehensive platform for exploring critical issues and emerging trends across various programmatic focuses.  These tracks aim to foster dialogue, collaboration, and innovation. Through engaging presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, participants will gain valuable insights, share expertise, and forge meaningful connections with fellow professionals and thought leaders.

The USET Offices of Environmental Resource Management, the Economic Development, and Tribal Public Health will present across these three domains:

• Our Homelands: Exploring the relationship between indigenous communities and their ancestral lands, this track delves into the challenges and best practices of preserving cultural heritage, community development, and environmental stewardship.
• Our People: Focusing on the well-being and empowerment of indigenous people, this track addresses issues such as health, education, and the preservation of traditional knowledge and languages.
• Our Voice: Envisioning a future shaped by indigenous perspectives, this track explores innovative solutions to pressing global challenges and inclusion of indigenous narratives.

Registration

Registration will open soon!

Special Events

Back for the third year, the Barter Market is an activity to discuss trade and remember the value of our time, expertise, and craft beyond the cash economy. To participate, please bring a good or service, large or small, that can make for a good trade. Some examples include Maple syrup, seeds, beadwork, baskets, jam, teas, traditional tools, books, a hug, resume review, seed sorting, etc.

Exhibitors

For inquiries on exhibitor opportunities at the USET 2026 Tribal Best Practices Conference, please contact us at bpcsupport@usetinc.org.

What to Expect

• The hotel does not provide airport shuttle service.
• All meals will not be provided.
• A wellness room will be available for participants to take a moment to unwind and relieve some stress.
• A lactation room will be provided for participants needing to pump or breastfeed.
• It will be hot and humid in Nashville. The weather is a bit unpredictable, but heat and humidity are a guarantee. However, some rooms in the hotel might be a bit chilly so it’s suggested to bring a light jacket or sweater.
• There will be fabulous prizes given during general sessions and you must be present to win.
• There will be amazing vendors!
• The USET/USET Event app will have the most up-to-date information regarding sessions, locations, and maps. Notifications will be sent throughout the conference for helpful reminders and announcements.

Meeting App

Use the USET/USET SPF Events app to stay up to date with the latest news and announcements, create your personal schedule, view all agendas, and connect with attendees.

The Best Practices Conference event will be available in the app the week before the Conference.

• Open the app in Google Play
• Open the app in the Apple Store

Safe Public Health Practices Policy for All USET/USET SPF Meetings

USET/USET SPF remains committed to fostering safe and healthy environments for all members, staff, and event attendees by applying general public health best practices. The USET Tribal Epidemiology Center (USET TEC) is a designated public health authority and encourages all attendees to adopt general health measures to protect themselves and others, such as:

• Staying home when feeling unwell.
• Washing hands frequently and thoroughly.
• Practicing respiratory etiquette (e.g., masking, covering coughs and sneezes).
• Remaining aware of potential health risks and staying informed about public health updates.

Questions?

Contact us at bpcsupport@usetinc.org.