The seven charter members of the NIAC included the six former members of the Nebraska Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (Condordia University-Nebraska, Dana College, Doane College, Hastings College, Midland Lutheran College, and Nebraska Wesleyan University) plus Northwestern College.
The NIAC was transformed into the Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC) in 2000 with the addition of Dakota Wesleyan University, Dordt College, Mount Mary College, and University of Sioux Falls. All former members of the NIAC remain affiliated with the GPAC.