The management of the NSIIC shall be vested in the Board of Directors. The Board shall have the following powers and duties:
(a)
Be responsible for the general supervision of the NSIIC;
(b)
Review any grant or contract agreement to be made or entered into by the NSIIC and any financial assistance provided to the NSIIC;
(c)
Make the final decision, by majority vote, on whether or not to provide grants to an eligible entity in accordance with the strategic plan;
(d)
Develop and establish a budget plan and long-term operating plan to carry out the goals of the NSIIC;
(e)
Adopt, and amend as appropriate, bylaws as necessary for the proper management and functioning of the NSIIC;
(f)
Provide a system of organization to fix responsibility and promote efficiency in carrying out the functions of the NSIIC;
(g)
Appoint and establish compensation for an executive director, who will serve at the pleasure of the Board, to be the chief executive officer of the NSIIC;
(h)
Appoint other officers, attorneys, employees, and agents as necessary and set forth their respective duties and powers;
(i)
Delegate, by resolution, to the chairperson, the executive director, or any other officer or employee any function, power, or duty of the Board—other than voting on a grant, contract, agreement, budget, or annual strategic plan; and
(j)
Consult with the following entities to carry out this part:
(1)
State departments of agriculture;
(2)
Federal departments and agencies;
(3)
Nonprofit development corporations;
(4)
Colleges and universities;
(5)
Banking and other credit-related agencies;
(6)
Agriculture and agribusiness organizations, and
(7)
Regional planning and development organizations.