Best Grants for Museums in Alaska

The Alaska Conservation Foundation's Rapid Response Grants support immediate conservation actions to tackle unforeseen environmental opportunities or threats. These grants aim to enhance environmental policies and protection efforts across Alaska, ensuring sustainable development and stronger regulations. By fostering conservation philanthropy and directing resources to key initiatives, ACF envisions a thriving, diverse, and well-protected Alaskan environment. The ongoing application process allows for swift responses to urgent conservation needs.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is offering assistance under the Contaminated Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act Lands Assistance Program. This initiative aims to support Tribal entities in Alaska in addressing contamination issues on lands conveyed through the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act. Eligible applicants include federally recognized tribes, Alaska Native regional and village corporations, and nonprofit associations. The program emphasizes the importance of safeguarding health and subsistence resources impacted by hazardous substances.

About NCRC

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a nationwide network of nearly 800 organizations and champions working for a Just Economy, where all Americans can build wealth and provide for their families with stability and dignity.

Our vision: To solve America’s historic racial and socio-economic wealth, income and opportunity divides. This vision is the foundation of the Just Economy Pledge.

NCRC Field Empowerment Fund (FEF) - Housing Counseling Services

The Field Empowerment Fund (FEF) empowers NCRC network members to level up established service lines.

The Housing Counseling Services series within FEF supports HUD-approved housing counseling agencies in driving homeownership, such as through pre-purchase counseling. In addition, the program builds agency knowledge on heirs’ property challenges to better equip first-time and low-income homebuying households with the know-how to retain intergenerational wealth.

In doing so, FEF-HCS aims to help underserved families begin their homeownership journey, with an additional goal of ensuring foresight into the long-term future of their home purchase.

The FEF-HCS series is funded in partnership with Key Bank and HSBC, and targets communities within the Key Bank and HSBC branch footprints.

Through these partnerships, $2.5 million in Key Bank geographies and $1.5 million in HSBC geographies has been allocated for the subgrants for direct-to-client housing counseling services that will be awarded in three rounds in the FEF-HCS track.

Funding Support

Awardee agencies will receive subgrants to support their housing counseling services to clients.

Knowledge Building

Awardee agencies will attend a training session on heirs’ property challenges and best practices, hosted by NCRC National Training Academy. Bolstering counselor knowledge on this topic will ensure that your agency is not only serving clients in their personal wealth-building journey now, but also helping them preserve that wealth in generations to come.

Alaska Workforce Investment Board

AWIB is the Governor of Alaska's appointed, lead planning and coordinating entity for Alaska's public workforce and development system. The Board provides policy oversight of state and federally funded job training and vocational education programs. Board members--who represent a variety of sectors in Alaska including business, industry, education, organized labor, and state government--examine employment trends and emerging occupations to ensure training efforts are aligned and that Alaskans are trained and ready for the jobs that pay well, and are in demand.

Alaska Technical Vocational Education Program (TVEP)

In 2000, legislation was enacted establishing the Alaska Technical Vocational Education Program. Recipients of TVEP non-competitive grant funds are part of a statewide vocational training system, working together with industry and state agencies to provide a comprehensive and unified response to Alaska's training needs.

TVEP funds must be used for technical and vocational training programs that align with workforce regional demands and the Alaska Workforce Investment Board’s industry priorities. The AWIB’s policy on vocational and technical education entitled "Alaska's Future Workforce Strategic Policies and Investment Blueprint” describes Alaska’s framework and guiding principles for development of technical and vocational education within Alaska’s workforce development system.

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service Joint Fire Science Program (JFSP) invites proposals for regional fire science exchanges across nine designated regions in the U.S. This initiative aims to promote the sharing of fire science knowledge and practices over a two-year period. Eligible applicants can focus on regions including Alaska, Appalachians, Great Basin, North Atlantic, Northern Rockies, Northwest, Oak Woodlands, Pacific Islands, and Southwest. Proposals must be specific to one region.

Alaska Housing Finance Corporation

Alaska Housing Finance Corporation’s mission is to provide Alaskans access to safe, quality, affordable housing.

Making mortgages accessible to Alaskans has been at the core of Alaska Housing. Over the years responsibilities of AHFC have expanded to include affordable housing programs, energy efficiency, senior housing and more.

Senior Housing Accessibility Modification Program (Senior Access Program)

NOFA Purpose and General Provisions

Under this Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA), Alaska Housing Finance Corporation will provide funding to successful respondents to act as a Grantee under the Senior Housing Accessibility Modification Program (Senior Access Program).

Through this Senior Access Program NOFA, Grantees provide and administer grants for qualifying senior households for the purpose of making needed accessibility modifications and life-safety repairs to their homes.

The Department of the Interior's Wildland Fire Service Joint Fire Science Program (JFSP) invites proposals for the FLAMES award, aimed at master and doctoral students in wildland fire studies. This initiative enhances research relevance by connecting students with fire management practices, providing experiential learning opportunities, and fostering mentorship. Students will gain valuable insights into management and policy, preparing them for impactful careers in fire science. The program emphasizes peer-learning and professional development in the context of wildland fire management.

Creative West

Established in 1974 as a nonprofit U.S. Regional Arts Organization (USRAO), Creative West was founded on the belief that place matters to the creative process. Fifty years later, communities of place, practice, experience, and identity remain fundamental to our work, framing our understanding of how culture is creatively produced and collectively experienced.

Creative West empowers artists and culture-makers with direct, practical resources, delivered regionally.

We offer practical, equity-centered learning experiences and funding opportunities that connect and inspire artists, culture-bearers and communities to build a more inclusive sector, strengthen the arts field, and catalyze change.

Native Arts and Heritage Fund

The Native Arts + Heritage Fund (NAHF) is a community-rooted award program created to support Native American and Alaska Native artists, culture bearers, and cultural practitioners across the Creative West region.

Co-designed with Native-centered artists, advisors, and community leaders, NAHF centers care, cultural continuity, and self-determination. The fund honors Indigenous ways of knowing and values process over product, relationship over compliance, and well-being as a meaningful measure of impact. In addition to unrestricted funding, selected artists will participate in a three-month virtual cohort experience designed for connection, reflection, and shared learning.

NAHF is administered by Creative West, an organization that uplifts artists and culture bearers across the Creative West region by providing funding, mentorship, and culturally rooted support.

This is not a project-based grant.

This is an invitation into funding and relationships.

Applicants must provide a letter of support from an Alaska Native or Native American community member who can speak to their relationship to community and cultural work.

Unrestricted Funds May Be Used For:

• Taking time to create, reflect, or rest
• Purchasing tools, materials, or supplies
• Covering food, rent, childcare, or transportation
• Supporting wellness: physical, emotional, spiritual, or cultural
• Participating in cultural exchanges, mentorship, or learning
• Creating space to gather, teach, or share knowledge

Nature's Path's Gardens for Good program empowers communities by funding organic gardens that address food insecurity. Since 2010, it has donated $930,000 CAD to support 120 gardens. In 2023, grants of $6,500 each will be awarded to 20 gardens across the U.S. and Canada. Eligible applicants must be registered non-profits with urban organic agriculture projects that serve low-income communities, promoting sustainable practices and inclusivity.

The Vocational Fund for Alaska's Future Grants support projects aimed at developing a skilled workforce in Alaska's natural resource industries. Eligible applicants, including nonprofits and educational institutions, can apply for funding to enhance skills in areas like plumbing, welding, and engineering. Preference is given to initiatives benefiting rural communities and sectors such as oil and gas. This grant fosters career awareness and skill acquisition, promoting economic growth in Alaska.

The NRA Foundation State Fund Grant in Alaska aims to promote firearms safety, shooting sports, and hunting education. It is designed to support charitable projects that align with the foundation's mission, including educational initiatives and research on firearms safety. Eligible applicants must be recognized 501(c)(3) entities or governmental organizations, ensuring that funds are directed towards public benefit activities. Ineligible projects include those seeking deficit financing or associated with commercial ventures.

The Society for Ecological Restoration Northwest Chapter offers Student Research Grants up to $3,000 to support research that enhances ecosystem restoration in the Cascadia bioregion. Eligible applicants include social or natural science graduate students and upper-level undergraduates. The grant can cover various project expenses, fostering innovative approaches to restore natural systems while promoting the diversity of life in the region.

The GCI Suicide Prevention Grant, offered by The Alaska Community Foundation in partnership with GCI, aims to reduce suicide rates in Alaska by supporting projects that promote mental wellness and community connections. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, tribal entities, and schools. The grant prioritizes initiatives that address generational trauma, veteran connectedness, and youth engagement, particularly in rural areas. Funding will enhance community support systems and encourage sustainable programs.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Alaska support rural communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that jeopardize safe drinking water access. Eligible applicants include public bodies, nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized tribes. Funds can be utilized for constructing waterlines or sources, with grants up to $1 million available. This program aims to restore access to clean water, ultimately benefiting both households and local businesses in affected areas.

The Statewide Teaching Artist Roster (STAR) Grants provide a juried list of qualified artists interested in teaching within schools. This initiative aims to connect communities with teaching artists, enhancing educational experiences through arts and culture for Alaska’s youth. By partnering with various organizations, STAR facilitates access to diverse arts education programs, enriching the learning environment beyond traditional settings. This program reflects a commitment to expanding arts education opportunities throughout the state.

The Innovations in Alzheimer’s Caregiving Awards, overseen by the Family Caregiver Alliance, recognize organizations that enhance support for family caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. These awards highlight innovative approaches in three categories: Creative Expression, Increasing Access and Reducing Stigma, and Public Policy. Each award is valued at $20,000, and applicants must be non-profit organizations, government agencies, or universities operating within the U.S. that focus on the needs of unpaid caregivers.

The ASCA: Community Arts Development Grants support Alaskan nonprofit organizations, schools, and tribal entities to foster grassroots arts activities across the state. These grants, capped at $5,000, aim to enhance public participation in the arts and assist in developing programs in underserved areas. Eligible organizations can receive one grant per fiscal year, provided their activities are open to the public and not solely for academic credit. Priority is given to volunteer-run organizations.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Alaska provides essential funding for rural areas to develop vital community facilities. Eligible projects include healthcare, public safety, and educational services in communities with populations under 20,000. Grants can cover up to 75% of project costs, depending on the median household income of the area. This program aims to enhance quality of life and ensure access to necessary services in underserved regions, fostering community growth and sustainability.

The THS Patricia Roppel Scholarship, established by The Alaska Community Foundation in 2015, honors Patricia "Pat" Roppel, an Alaskan author and historian. This annual scholarship of $5,000 supports undergraduate or graduate students majoring in Alaska history. Applicants must be enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited college, with a GPA of 2.9 or higher. Preference is given to those specializing in Southeast Alaska history, mining, fisheries, or timber.

Marathon Petroleum Corporation's Community Investment Grants aim to enhance community welfare through strategic partnerships with 501(c)(3) non-profits and government entities. The focus areas include workforce development, sustainability, and thriving communities, reflecting the company's commitment to making a measurable impact in regions where they operate. Eligible organizations must be U.S.-based and recognized as non-profits. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that align with its values and community needs, ensuring support for impactful projects.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Alaska provides essential funding for rural areas to develop clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, and storm water management. This program supports local governments, nonprofits, and tribes lacking commercial credit options. Eligible projects include the construction and improvement of water treatment facilities, sewer systems, and solid waste management. The initiative aims to enhance public health and environmental quality while ensuring access to vital resources for communities.

The Alaska Migrant Literacy Grant, provided by the U.S. Department of Education and managed by the Alaska Department of Education & Early Development, aims to enhance educational opportunities for migratory children. This grant supports districts in improving literacy for migratory families through access to literature, family engagement activities, and instructional strategies. It is designed to meet state academic standards and ensure that migratory children achieve success in their educational programs.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools to implement the PLTW Engineering program for the 2025-2026 academic year and beyond. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the US. Grant recipients will receive funding to cover participation fees and training costs. Total funding amounts to $16,000, distributed over three years. Schools are encouraged to create pathways for students in engineering through this initiative.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) offers grants for schools to implement the PLTW Computer Science program from 2025 to 2028. Schools must provide at least one PLTW course in the first year and two courses in the second year. The total grant is $14,000, covering participation fees and training costs. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the U.S., with special encouragement for those serving low-income or minority-majority populations.

The Richard L. and Diane M. Block Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for Alaskans through support for social services, arts, culture, and youth empowerment. The foundation prioritizes organizations that provide direct services, address underlying social challenges, and demonstrate financial responsibility. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) non-profits based in Alaska for at least five years, focusing on sustainable solutions. Grants are not available for medical services or organizations that redistribute funds.

Alaska State Libraries, Archives & Museums

The mission of the Division of Libraries, Archives, and Museums is to promote lifelong learning for all Alaskans through Alaska’s diverse history, art, and culture.

Congress passed an act establishing the Alaska Historical Library and Museum for the District of Alaska on June 6, 1900. The purpose of the Museum and Historical Library was to collect, preserve and provide access to objects, laws, and papers from the Territory. The Legislature established the Alaska State Library in 1955 to provide reference library service to Territorial and other public officials and to cooperate with other libraries to increase effectiveness and reduce duplication. The Legislature established the Alaska State Archives in 1970, which opened its doors to the public in 1972. The Sheldon Jackson Museum, founded in 1888 to house an exceptional collection of Alaska Native ethnographic material gathered by Presbyterian missionary Rev. Dr. Sheldon Jackson, was purchased by the State of Alaska in 1985.

Regional Library Services Grant

The Regional Library Services (RLS) Grant is an annual non-competitive grant opportunity to provide reasonable access to library materials where there are no library facilities, or to provide training or technical support to Alaskan libraries.

Applicants and proposals need to meet requirements according to Alaska Library Law. RLS Grants are awarded according to an agreement between the Alaska State Library and the applicant library.

Federal and/or State Funding Source

The Alaska State Library uses federal Grants to States funds under the Library Services and Technology Act funds (CFDA 45.310) and/or State of Alaska grant funds for Library Assistance Grants. If awarded, the pass-through funding source will be indicated in the grant agreement.

Statutes & Regulations

Visit Alaska Library Law for specific statutes and regulations for the Regional Library Services Grant under Library Assistance Grants.

• Alaska Statutes: Article 03 Library Assistance Grants Sec. 14.56.300. - 14.56.340.
• Alaska Administrative Code: Article 2: Library Assistance Grants 4 AAC 57.050. - 57.099.

4 AAC 57.050. Purpose

b.3. regional library services grants, as authorized by AS 14.46.310 (a)(3), to assist libraries in providing regional library services to areas of the state in which there are no library facilities.

4 AAC 57.069. Regional library services grants

The division shall make a regional library services grant to a library that enters into an agreement with the state library to act on behalf of the state library to:

• furnish library materials to areas of the state in which there is not sufficient population or local revenue to support operation of a public library facility; or
• provide services, training, or technical support to other libraries

Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities designs, constructs, operates and maintains the state’s transportation infrastructure systems, buildings, and other facilities used by Alaskans and visitors. These include more than 5,600 miles of paved and gravel highways; 237 airports; 839 bridges; over 800 public facilities; 16 harbors; and a ferry system covering 3,500 nautical miles serving 33 coastal communities.

49 USC 5311 Non-Urban Formula Grants

Non-Urbanized Formula Program grants provide transit capital, operating assistance, and program administration through the States, to non-urbanized areas (less than 50,000 in population) for public transportation. State agencies, local public bodies and agencies thereof, private-nonprofit and private for-profit (inter-city only) organizations and operators of public transportation services are eligible to apply.

Title 49 USC § 5311(d) authorizes states to use funds for the provision of local, general public transportation service in rural areas.

5311 Rural Transit Grants - Notice of Funding Opportunity

Purpose

The purpose of the Section 5311 program is to support general public transportation in rural areas. This is complemented by 5339 Bus & Bus Facilities capital funds. The goals of the program are to:

• Encourage the maintenance, development, improvement, and use of public transportation systems
• To encourage and facilitate the most efficient use of all federal funds used to provide passenger transportation in rural areas through the coordination and consolidation of programs and services
• Assist in the development and support of intercity bus transportation

Eligible projects include transit capital, operating assistance, and program administration through the States, to nonurbanized areas (less than 50,000 in population) for public transportation.