Travois Conference or NTCCP Training? We’ll help you decide.

Together with the National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC), Travois developed the NAHASDA & Tax Credit Compliance Professional (NTCCP) certification to help tribal housing professionals learn best practices for managing and operating developments funded with the federal Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program and NAHASDA. Our next training will be held March 19-21 at Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino in Chandler, AZ.

The 19th Annual Travois Conference is coming soon, April 9-11, and provides two days of instruction in the LIHTC and New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) programs. Our conference gives attendees an opportunity to hear from veteran developers, explore new opportunities with impact investing, learn asset management and compliance rules, get creative with our design team and think through future growth and development opportunities in their communities.

We’d love to have you attend both, but we understand travel budgets and needs may not agree! To help you determine which is right for you, we asked Crystal Banks-Mann, assistant director of asset management and NTCCP course instructor, to answer a few questions about each training.

NAHASDA & Tax Credit Compliance Professional (NTCCP) certification, March 19-21

What does the NTCCP course cover? The intensive course includes instruction on affordable housing laws and guidelines. We learn terms, rules and regulations associated with the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) and the LIHTC program, and we talk about how the two work together. We walk through mathematic formulas to determine eligibility and monthly rent, and we discuss real-life situations, problems and solutions. Bring a pencil!

Who should attend NTCCP Certification training? This course is designed for tribal housing professionals, including occupancy specialists, resident services staff and compliance professionals. We also welcome finance officers, executive directors, board members and tribal council members — anyone who wants to learn more about the compliance side of LIHTC and NAHASDA! Registration fees start at $700, payable to NAIHC, and discounted hotel rooms are available until Feb. 22.

What are the steps to receive the NTCCP certification? After passing the exam with a score of 70% or higher, to receive the NTCCP certificate, attendees must also:

  • demonstrate a minimum of 2 years’ experience in NAHASDA-LIHTC-related projects;
  • complete the Certification of Work Experience; and
  • execute the NTCCP Code of Professional Responsibility.

How does this certification help my career? The NTCCP certification is a unique national certification that acknowledges expertise in both NAHASDA and the LIHTC program, with a specific focus on Indian housing. 

What is your teaching style? In a word: FUN! It’s very important to me that each student is successful. If we need to go over multiple examples, we will. I make sure everyone understands the material and is prepared for the exam. I also like to laugh and keep the class comfortable, and we take plenty of breaks! Register today through NAIHC’s website!

19th Annual Travois Indian Country Affordable Housing & Economic Development Conference, April 9-11

What does the Travois conference cover? The Travois conference is an excellent way to see the big picture – how to plan, design, fund, build, operate and manage affordable housing. You’ll hear from experienced developers on what challenges they faced and how they overcame them. Attendees have a chance to meet with Travois staff to talk through their ideas and get help on moving forward. And, it is unique because we also talk about funding economic developments and impact investments.

Who should attend the Travois conference? We offer free registrations for qualifying attendees, who work in housing, community or economic development and who serve American Indian, Alaska Native or Native Hawaiian communities or people. Qualifying attendees include staff members and executive directors, elected leadership, board members or commissioners, and other employees of TDHEs, tribal housing authorities or departments, tribes, tribal colleges and universities, Alaska Native Corporations, villages or tribes, and Native Hawaiian development organizations. Discounted hotel rooms are available through Wednesday, March 13. Register and book your stay today!

How will the conference help me in my career? Understanding how all the pieces fit together, why each step is important and how to avoid obstacles or overcome them will help you help your community. We don’t give out any tests or certifications, but those with NTCCP designations can earn continuing education credits. Maybe you’ll be inspired and get ideas on how to become a future Superhero!

What is your teaching style? I will share the stage with my Travois colleagues, tribal developers and industry experts. We all have different styles, but we share the same desire to give you the tools and knowledge you need to make a difference in your community. Read more on our website.