Best Grants for Museums in Alaska

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 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 NIOSH Miner Safety and Health Training Program aims to enhance health and safety training for miners in the Western United States. With mining fatalities significantly higher than the national average, this initiative seeks to address critical training needs by developing effective programs, increasing qualified instructors, and ensuring compliance with existing safety guidelines. By focusing on culturally appropriate training methods and collaborative efforts with other agencies, the program aims to reduce injuries and fatalities in the mining sector.

The Denali Commission is seeking statements of interest for rural transportation projects in Alaska requiring local match or gap funding assistance. Up to $7,500,000 is available for construction-ready projects, benefiting public infrastructure. Eligible applicants include municipal, borough, and tribal governments, as well as non-profit organizations. Priority will be given to those without active awards from the Commission. Successful applicants will be invited to submit proposals, with awards anticipated in spring 2027.

The Awesome Foundation offers Local Chapter Grants of $1000 to individuals and groups for innovative projects that enhance community engagement. Each chapter operates independently, focusing on unique interpretations of 'awesome' across various fields such as arts and technology. Grants are awarded monthly, emphasizing no-strings-attached support. This initiative encourages creativity and experimentation, aiming to inspire and delight communities worldwide. For more details, applicants can explore individual chapter preferences and restrictions through the foundation's website.

Serve Alaska offers FY 2025 Formula Funded AmeriCorps State and National Grants to support community service and volunteering. These grants empower eligible organizations to engage AmeriCorps members in evidence-based initiatives, enhancing civic engagement and addressing pressing community challenges. Participants may receive a living allowance and benefits, leading to the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award for educational expenses. The program underscores the importance of service in fostering stronger communities across Alaska.

About Us

Overview

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. ACF also manages the Pick.Click.Give. program.

Mission

Inspiring the spirit of giving and connecting people, organizations, and causes to strengthen Alaska’s communities now and forever.

Vision

ACF envisions an Alaska where communities come together and have resources to thrive.

Ray and Maxine Stephens Memorial Scholarship Fund

Established by the family of Ray and Maxine Stephens to honor their memory and commitment to education in rural Alaska.

The Wild Sheep Foundation (WSF) offers Grant-In-Aid (GIA) funding to support conservation and management programs for wild sheep populations across North America and Central Asia. Established in 1977, WSF prioritizes collaborative proposals that involve partners and matching funds. The organization has raised over $130 million for wild sheep conservation, emphasizing scientific management and public education about sustainable hunting practices. GIA funding decisions align with WSF's mission and identified priority goals.

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. 

Denali Scholarship Fund

The Denali Scholarship Fund was created by the generous legacy donation of Frances B. Mlakar to support Alaskan students seeking post-secondary education within the state of Alaska. Students seeking higher education or vocational/technical training are invited to apply.

The Denali Scholarship awards scholarships of up to $20,000 to students planning to enroll in programs at post-secondary programs in Alaska.

There is an option to re-apply for the Denali Scholarship for up to four years for recipients who maintain good academic standing with their academic institutions.

The KeyBank Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations focused on enhancing communities through education, workforce development, and affordable housing. Founded in 1969, the Foundation prioritizes diversity, financial capability, and sustainability. Their grants aim to empower individuals for success by improving access to resources, fostering economic inclusion, and creating safe environments. By partnering with community organizations, KeyBank Foundation seeks to make a measurable impact and ensure lasting positive change for families and small businesses.

About Us

Overview

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. ACF also manages the Pick.Click.Give. program.

Mission

Inspiring the spirit of giving and connecting people, organizations, and causes to strengthen Alaska’s communities now and forever.

Vision

ACF envisions an Alaska where communities come together and have resources to thrive.

EMC Engineering Scholarship Fund

Established in 2002, EMC Engineering LLC. is an employee-owned and operated civil consulting firm. The firm has established itself in the civil construction industry and has a strong reputation for professional excellence.

The scholarship will grant out $5,000 scholarships to two students with the option for recipients to renew the scholarship annually for a period totaling four years so long as they continue to satisfy all application criteria.

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. 

ConocoPhillips Alaska Process Tech Scholarship

The ConocoPhillips Alaska Process Tech Scholarship is designed to expand access to high‑quality technical education and build a strong, diverse pipeline of future Process Technology operators from Alaska. Its purpose is to support graduating Alaska high school seniors who want to pursue the 2-year Process Tech degree at the University of Alaska.

Each year, the ConocoPhillips Alaska Process Tech Scholarship will award four $15,000 scholarships to students enrolling in UA’s Process Technology program. The scholarship is paid over two years ($7,500 per year), with continued support as long as students remain enrolled. This investment reflects ConocoPhillips Alaska’s long-term commitment to helping Alaskans build meaningful, in-demand careers and strengthening the state’s future workforce

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.

Public Library Assistance Grants

Alaska public libraries and combined school public libraries may apply annually for the state-funded non-competitive Public Library Assistance (PLA) Grant. Grant funds, in part, must be used by eligible libraries to purchase library materials and may also be used, in part, to pay staff or cover other daily operating costs of the library.  

Pre-Elementary Grant (PEG) 

Alaska Pre-Elementary Grants (PEG) promote school readiness and positive outcomes for participating three, four, and five-year-old children. Information is gathered from funded programs to inform the longer-term implementation of accessible, affordable, mixed delivery, and high-quality early care and education.

Grant Structure

• Three-year grant cycle
  • July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2026
  • July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2029
• Historically, $3.2 million total, per year, dependent on annual legislative appropriation

Foundation Formula Funding for Early Education Program Students Grant

District-wide early education programs may be approved by the Department of Education and Early Development (DEED) to count preschool students for formula funding [Sec 14.17.500(d)]. Eligible 4- and 5-year-old students will be counted at a rate of one-half of a full-time student or 0.5 average daily membership (ADM).

• DEED must approve a district-wide program based on the eligibility criteria described below [Sec 14.07.020(a)(8)].
• Eligible 4- and 5-year-old students enrolled in preschool classrooms will be counted at a rate of one-half of a full-time student or 0.5 average daily membership (ADM) [Sec 14.17.500(d)].
• A district may include eligible students in the fall OASIS count for formula funding in the same year it is approved.

This funding source is commonly referred to as Preschool ADM, 0.5 ADM, EEP-ADM, and early education ADM aid.

Early Education Program (EEP) Grant

Alaska Early Education Program Grants support school districts to develop or improve early education programs. Grantees work towards implementing the Early Education Program Standards so they will be eligible for formula funding by the end of the three-year grant cycle.

Purpose:

To provide training and assistance to classroom-based school district preschool programs as they work towards implementation of the Alaska Early Education Program Standards and approval to count preschool students for formula funding. (AS 14.03.410(a)).

Grantees work towards implementing the Alaska Early Education Program Standards and employing teacher(s) with appropriate and required certification. Upon successful completion of grant requirements, districts will be approved by the Department to count four- and five-year old students in the average daily membership count for formula funding.

Total Funding

• Three-year grant cycle
• $3 million total, per year, funded by legislative appropriation

The Alaska Civil Money Penalty (CMP) Funds aim to enhance the quality of care and life for nursing home residents by reinvesting collected CMPs into various supportive initiatives. These funds facilitate projects like resident relocation, consumer advocacy involvement, and facility improvements, ensuring that nursing homes comply with regulations. Organizations such as advocacy groups, nursing home associations, and state agencies can apply for these funds to drive positive changes in long-term care facilities across Alaska.

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 WaterSMART Applied Science Grants aim to enhance water management and supply reliability through innovative research and data utilization. By inviting qualified entities to apply for funding, the program focuses on improving hydrologic data access, forecasting capabilities, and modeling tools. This initiative aligns with federal priorities to optimize resources, ensuring water managers can effectively address future demands and adapt to climate challenges, thus fostering resilience in water operations across the nation.

The Water & Waste Disposal Predevelopment Planning Grants in Alaska assist low-income communities in planning and applying for USDA Rural Development projects. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized tribes. Grants can cover up to $60,000 or 75% of planning costs, with a requirement for matching funds of at least 25%. This program aims to ensure communities have access to essential water and waste disposal services.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, initiated by the Arbor Day Foundation, empowers colleges and universities to enhance their community forests while achieving national recognition. By participating, institutions commit to comprehensive tree care and education, significantly benefiting both the environment and student well-being. This program not only promotes sustainability but also fosters a sense of pride within campus communities. Join us in cultivating greener campuses and nurturing the next generation's commitment to environmental stewardship.

The 2026 Alaska Marine Education and Training Mini-Grant Program seeks to enhance workforce development in marine-related professions and improve seafood safety and management. This initiative encourages projects that foster technological innovations in fishing practices and promote outreach on sustainability and quality of seafood. By strengthening partnerships among industry, researchers, and communities, the program aims to build a competitive and sustainable marine community in Alaska, with all projects required to be conducted within the state.

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.

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 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 WaterSMART Enhancing Water Resources Projects program invites eligible entities to secure funding for initiatives that enhance water resource management across various sectors, including conservation, infrastructure improvement, and watershed restoration. Priority is given to projects that collaboratively address community needs and yield significant environmental benefits. This funding opportunity aligns with federal priorities aimed at optimizing resource use and improving grant oversight, as outlined in recent executive orders.

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.