Best Grants for Museums in Alaska

The Coaching Enhancement Grant - Division II aims to enhance diversity in NCAA coaching by providing financial support for new assistant coaching positions. This grant specifically targets increased representation of ethnic minorities and women in athletics. Selected schools receive funding for three years to cover salaries and benefits, totaling $370,000 annually for up to 21 institutions. Eligible schools must be active NCAA Division II members committed to these diversity efforts.

Grant-in-Aid (GIA) 

"Grant In Aid" is a program that the Alaska State Museum has been offering to museums and cultural centers across Alaska for over four and a half decades! There are two separate tracks that you may apply for. Museums and cultural centers can apply for either a Mini Grant or a Regular Grant but cannot apply for both. 

The Alaska State Museum (ASM) provides Alaska museums with funding to enhance museum services through the annual Grant-in-Aid (GIA) program. 

Both grant programs support projects that supplement or improve the services that a museum provides. Organizations can use grant awards for projects related to collections, exhibits, education, outreach, and organizational development. Funds can be used to purchase supplies and equipment, pay for contractual services or other items necessary to support and improve museum services and operations. Museums are encouraged to submit project proposals in support of consultations with Tribes as required under the new NAGPRA regulations. The program may consider proposals that provide funding for professional development and training. 

Regular Grants

Up to $12,000 are available to eligible museums and cultural centers of all sizes, regardless of size of operating budget. 

The Alaska Sea Grant Biennial Research Call invites innovative proposals for research projects focused on healthy coastal ecosystems, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, resilient communities and economies, and environmental literacy and workforce development. Established in 1970, the program aims to enhance understanding and sustainable use of Alaska's marine and coastal resources. Proposals should align with the goals outlined in the Alaska Sea Grant 2024–2027 Strategic Plan, addressing priority information needs across the state.

The Francis Grants, established by Catholic Extension, offer funding for significant events in poor mission dioceses, such as the ordination of new Bishops, anniversaries, or papal visits. These grants also support educational endeavors for Bishops. Named in honor of Francis Clement Kelly, Francis Cardinal George OMI, and Pope Francis, the program aims to strengthen the Catholic faith across the U.S. Since 1905, Catholic Extension has invested over $500 million to assist communities in need.

The Ted Smith Conservation Internship Program, established by the Alaska Conservation Foundation, aims to invest in young adults pursuing careers in conservation. This program offers undergraduates and recent graduates hands-on experience, practical job skills, and networking opportunities with conservation professionals in Alaska. Interns contribute to vital conservation efforts while gaining invaluable insights into the state's unique environment and cultures. Selected host organizations receive funding to support intern stipends for 12 weeks.

The Catholic School Leadership Development Grant Program aims to cultivate and retain promising leaders within the Catholic school system. In partnership with Loyola Marymount University, this initiative offers a graduate-level online Certificate in Catholic School Administration, covering 80% of tuition costs and providing funding for essential travel. The one-year program focuses on mission effectiveness, operational management, and instructional leadership, requiring participants to serve two years in their diocese post-completion, thereby enhancing local educational leadership.

This program involves scientists, agricultural producers, and others using interdisciplinary approaches to advance sustainable agriculture at local and regional levels. With the collaboration of producers, projects must integrate rigorous research and education aiming to advance the three components of sustainable agriculture- environmental, economic, and social- and use innovative educational outreach to disseminate new knowledge to students, producers, and stakeholders. It is expected that outcomes of funded projects will result in quantifiable benefits for producers, increase the preservation of the natural resources upon which agriculture depends, and be documented in scholarly journals and disseminated through teaching and educational activities with students, producers, and other agricultural stakeholders. 

The Advocacy for Children, Youth, and Families Grant, offered by Alaska Children's Trust, aims to strengthen advocacy efforts for children and families in Alaska. With up to ten grants available, each worth $3,000, eligible nonprofit organizations can engage in advocacy during the 2026 legislative session. This initiative supports activities that defend existing laws, propose new legislation, and prevent harmful policies, ultimately striving to safeguard the welfare of Alaskan children and families.

The North Pacific Research Board (NPRB) invites proposals for the Core Program Grant, addressing critical fishery management and marine ecosystem needs. This competitive grant program supports research in the Gulf of Alaska, Bering Sea, Aleutian Islands, and Arctic Ocean. NPRB prioritizes projects that enhance understanding of marine ecosystems and promote sustainable fisheries. Proposals can be submitted at any time and may receive co-funding through partnerships, ensuring collaborative efforts in advancing marine sciences.

The Ethnic Minorities and Women’s Internship Grant supports entry-level athletics administrative positions for one academic year, promoting diversity in NCAA Division II. It provides $30,000 for intern salaries and $3,000 for professional development, benefiting six schools annually from a total budget of $180,000. Eligible applicants must be active NCAA members, with a focus on enhancing ethnic minority and gender representation in athletics administration. This initiative encourages professional growth and compliance in diverse environments.

The Undergraduate & Graduate Grant Program, supported by the Anacortes Salmon Derby, aims to fund research focused on recreationally important fish species in the Pacific Northwest. This initiative prioritizes applicants studying Fisheries Biology or Management, encouraging the conservation of salmon and other marine species. Scholarships and grants are available for undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate a commitment to ecological research and sustainable fisheries management, ensuring the protection of vital aquatic resources for future generations.

The Alaska Clean Water Actions (ACWA) Grants support initiatives aimed at enhancing water quality across Alaska. Established over 20 years ago, ACWA fosters collaboration among state agencies to address pollution through comprehensive watershed planning. This funding opportunity encourages local governments and stakeholders to propose projects that mitigate water quality issues. Notably, this grant cycle eliminates match funding requirements, making it easier for applicants to access necessary resources for green infrastructure projects that manage stormwater runoff.

The Our Ancestors' Echoes Language Scholarship, administered by Sealaska Heritage Institute, supports Alaska Native shareholders and their descendants pursuing language studies. This scholarship covers tuition for one heritage language course in the Spring 2026 semester, promoting the preservation and revitalization of Alaska Native languages. Sealaska has awarded over 12,000 scholarships totaling over $26 million to enhance educational opportunities for its community.

Sealaska Heritage Institute offers the Indigenizing Education for Alaska Scholarships to support Alaska Native students pursuing higher education. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities for shareholders and descendants through financial aid. Eligible applicants include enrolled members of Sealaska Corporation or their lineal descendants, with minimum GPA requirements of 2.0 for undergraduates and 3.0 for graduates. Over $26 million has been awarded to date, reflecting Sealaska's commitment to education and community advancement.

The Northwest Coast Art & Museum Studies Scholarship, administered by Sealaska Heritage Institute, supports full-time students pursuing degrees in Northwest Coast Art at UAS or IAIA, or Museum studies at any U.S. college. Eligible applicants must be Alaska Native or descendants of enrolled Alaska Natives, with a minimum GPA of 2.0. This scholarship provides up to $5,000 for the Spring 2026 semester, promoting educational advancement for Sealaska's shareholders and descendants.

The Dr. Patricia Allynson Winter Fund supports female graduate students in mycology pursuing teaching careers, reflecting the late Dr. Winter's priorities. Grants range from $1,000 to $6,000, with year-round applications for amounts under $1,000. Eligible applicants include female students and post-doctoral fellows in mycology, while applications from for-profit organizations and outside the Pacific Northwest are ineligible. Preference is given to projects involving mushroom-forming fungi, aligning with Dr. Stuntz's research focus.

The Perkins Professional Development Grant aims to enhance career and technical education (CTE) by providing high-quality, evidence-based professional development for educators. With approximately $125,000 available, the grant supports training in areas such as online pedagogy and the integration of academic standards. The initiative focuses on equipping teachers with necessary skills to improve student outcomes, particularly in high-needs districts, ensuring alignment with current industry standards and licensure requirements.

The Strategic Alliance Matching Grant - Division II offers financial support to enhance ethnic minority and gender representation in mid- to senior-level athletics administration roles across NCAA Division II institutions. With an annual budget of $860,000, the grant aims to fund up to 20 schools and conferences each year. Eligible applicants must be active Division II members and are encouraged to collaborate with their human resources departments during the proposal process, ensuring compliance with grant requirements.

The Alaska Recreational Trails Program (RTP) is a grant program that provides reimbursable, matching funds for the development, maintenance, and repair of recreational trails and trail-related facilities across Alaska. The goal is to improve outdoor recreational trail opportunities for both motorized and non-motorized users by funding trail construction, renovation, signage, trailhead facilities, equipment for trail maintenance, and safety/education programs. All projects must serve public recreational trail needs. 

DFFP Inflation Reduction Act Grants - Community Forest Management Plan, Tree Inventory, and Tree Canopy Assessment Grants

The USDA Forest Service (USFS) and the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry and Fire Protection, Community Forestry Program (CFP), have Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) grant monies available to local governments, state agencies, tribal organizations, non-profits, public universities, and other non-federal entities for projects in Alaska communities.

No match funding is required. A total of $180,000 is available.

Department of Natural Resources

The Department of Natural Resources manages all state-owned land, water and natural resources, except for fish and game, on behalf of the people of Alaska. When all land conveyances from the federal government are completed, the people of the state will own land and resources on 104 million acres: Approximately 100 million acres have been conveyed so far. The state owns approximately 60 million acres of tidelands, shorelands, and submerged lands and manages 40,000 miles of coastline. The state also owns the freshwater resources of the state, a resource that equals about 40% of the entire nation's fresh water flow.

Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Grant

The USDA Forest Service (USFS) and the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry and Fire Protection, Community Forestry Program (CFP), have Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) grant monies available to local governments, state agencies, tribal organizations, non-profits, public universities, and other non-federal entities for projects in Alaska communities.

Funding is available for: Green Infrastructure Projects; Phytoremediation Projects; Invasive Tree Control Project; and other projects.

Invasive Tree Control Grant Round III

Monies are available to control invasive , commonly known as European bird cherry, chokecherry or mayday trees and , commonly known as Canada red and chokecherry trees. These are 100% reimbursable grants and will be awarded on a competitive basis. No match funding is required. Grants will be awarded for up to 2 years.

The Alaska Arts Reporting Initiative Grant, provided by the Alaska Community Foundation, aims to support innovative arts and culture stories that go beyond the current coverage in Alaska. This initiative encourages individuals and journalism organizations, particularly those based in Alaska, to apply for funding that can cover various project expenses, including travel and data analysis. It represents a significant opportunity to enhance the visibility of local narratives and strengthen community engagement through storytelling.

The NWS Student Travel Award, offered by the American Physical Society, provides financial support of up to $400 for undergraduate students to attend the Annual Meeting. This initiative aims to enhance participation among students, especially those without other funding sources, who are presenting research. Established in 1998, the Northwest Section of APS fosters collaboration among physicists in the Pacific Northwest, promoting educational and research opportunities within the community.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Sven & Lorraine Eriksson Alaska Fund

A scholarship fund to support post-secondary education opportunities for students at the University of Alaska Anchorage studying engineering or music.

Sven and Lorraine Eriksson are true Alaskan pioneers. Sven moved to Alaska in 1951 where he worked as an electrical engineer for Post Engineers, going on to become the Chief of Utilities for US Army Installations. Lorraine moved to Alaska in 1952 and worked first for Yukon Equipment followed by Ed’s Electric. They were married in 1953 and spent their honeymoon at the old Mt. McKinley Hotel during December when outside temperatures were fifty below zero. The Eriksson’s operated Ed’s Electric from 1974-1997. They have spent their lives enjoying Alaska; flying, skiing, hunting, and fishing with their two sons, Kurt and Chris.

The Stuntz Mycology Fund offers Mini Grants to support mycological research and education in the Pacific Northwest. Grants, up to $250, are available for K-12 teachers, educators, and students for projects involving fungi, including workshops and science fairs. Applications are accepted anytime, with funds disbursed within 30 days. Although applicants do not need to reside in the region, their projects must benefit the local mycological community.

State Training and Employment Program

The State Training and Employment Program (STEP) is administered by the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development (DOLWD), Alaska Workforce Investment Board (AWIB) and funded by a set aside from the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund. The purpose of STEP is to enhance the quality and accessibility of in-state training and employment services for Alaska residents to help meet the workforce needs of employers in the state. In addition, the program seeks to increase resident employment in industries where a high number of nonresidents are working, reduce future unemployment claims, and foster economic growth in all regions by meeting employer demand for a skilled workforce.

STEP provides several types of training opportunities, including industry-specific training; on-the-job training, apprentice training in a USDOL Registered Apprenticeship program; institutional or classroom job-linked training; and support services necessary to enable a participant to attend training and/or obtain or retain a job.

Benefits of the program

STEP targets participants who may be employed or employable, have worked in a job covered by unemployment insurance in any state, and who need training to improve their prospects for obtaining or retaining employment. The goal of STEP is to help self-motivate individuals with realistic goals to gain essential skills for employment success. The benefit to STEP participants as they move forward in their careers aided by STEP training is increased earning potential. Employers who invest in a skilled workforce gain a competitive edge in business and benefit from costs incurred in supporting unemployment insurance for those not working.

The Western SARE Professional Development Program Grant supports education and outreach for agricultural professionals. Aimed at enhancing knowledge in sustainable agriculture, it provides funding for projects that train educators and farmers through workshops, conferences, and digital media. With a focus on the environmental, economic, and social aspects of agriculture, projects can last up to three years and receive up to $100,000 in funding. This initiative fosters a 'train the trainer' approach to improve agricultural practices.