Best Grants for Museums in Alaska

The Northern Scientific Training Program (NSTP) supports Canadian university students engaged in northern studies by providing supplementary funding for their thesis research in the North. Established in 1961, this program helps over 350 students annually across 35 universities, fostering essential training and professional experience. Applications must be submitted by a recognized Northern Studies Committee chairperson, ensuring eligibility for various northern research projects, which must be tied to students' thesis work.

The ASCA: Harper Arts Touring Fund, managed by the Alaska State Council on the Arts, supports diverse arts initiatives in Alaska. Established in 2002, it provides grants for travel and freight expenses related to touring performances and exhibitions. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government units. The fund promotes community engagement through arts presentations that reach underserved populations. It aims to enhance access to quality cultural experiences across Alaskan communities, fostering local artist development and audience growth.

The Helen Walker Performing Arts Grants, administered by the Alaska State Council on the Arts, support performing arts initiatives across Alaska. Named after notable arts advocate Helen A. Walker, this program encourages projects that reach underserved communities and promote artistic heritage. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, government units, and tribal entities. Funding can cover diverse performances and workshops, fostering accessibility and innovation in the arts. This initiative aims to enhance cultural engagement and community involvement in the performing arts.

The PNASH Pilot Project Program at the University of Washington focuses on enhancing agricultural safety and health through innovative research and outreach. The program supports both early-stage and experienced investigators in developing preliminary data, adapting proven tools, and exploring new research directions. With funding of up to $30,000 for pilot projects and an additional $5,000 for education grants, this initiative aims to improve workplace safety for agricultural workers, including those in fishing and forestry. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

The WNAN Natural History Research Grant supports research in biological natural history within western North America. Grants of up to $2,500 are available for five authors to assist with travel, supplies, and other research-related expenses. This initiative particularly encourages applicants from institutions where research is not the primary focus, aiming to foster diverse contributions to natural history.

The Murdock College Research Program supports innovative natural sciences research at private undergraduate colleges in the Pacific Northwest. It emphasizes faculty-student collaboration, enhancing educational methods through inquiry-based teaching. Proposals are assessed on scientific merit and the investigator's qualifications, with a focus on projects that significantly contribute to fundamental knowledge in the field. This program encourages active participation from undergraduate students as research associates, fostering their development and engagement in scientific inquiry.

The Partners in Science Grant Program, funded by the M J Murdock Charitable Trust, connects secondary school science teachers with research mentors to enhance their teaching and research skills. This innovative initiative offers renewable three-year grants to universities, supporting partnerships that foster professional growth through hands-on research experiences. Teachers engage in two annual conferences, allowing them to share findings and best practices, ultimately enriching the educational landscape and improving student engagement in scientific inquiry.

The Research Start-Up Grants for New Science Faculty program, funded by the M J Murdock Charitable Trust, provides financial support to help new faculty positions in natural sciences at private colleges in five states. Grants match institutional funds 1:1, up to $36,000, to assist with start-up costs, including cash and in-kind support, ensuring institutions can attract qualified candidates while enhancing research capabilities.

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.

The Gino Watkins Memorial Fund & Edward Wilson Fund Grants support polar expeditions that enhance knowledge and safety in the Polar Regions. They welcome applications from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing youth engagement. The Edward Wilson Fund, administered by the Scott Polar Research Institute, particularly favors expeditions focusing on biological and ecological studies. Grants may be awarded for suitable projects, with a preference for those that train and involve young people, helping them gain valuable experience.

The Tribal Solar Accelerator Fund (TSAF) empowers tribal communities across the U.S. by promoting renewable energy projects and workforce development. Launched by GRID Alternatives, TSAF provides critical funding for solar initiatives, enhancing energy sovereignty and resilience. Since its inception, TSAF has integrated community participation into its projects, ensuring that tribes can access sustainable energy solutions. By prioritizing education and equity, TSAF supports a transition to a clean energy economy, aiming for a sustainable future for generations to come.

Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Program

The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Act was established in 1964 to provide recreational opportunities for America’s communities. The intent was to provide a consistent source of funding for the development of local parks, playgrounds, and other recreationalspaces. The fund does not use any taxpayer dollars; rather, it utilizes earnings from offshore oil and gas leases to fund local recreation projects.

Program Goals

• Meet State and locally identified public outdoor recreation resource needs to strengthen the health and vitality of the American people.
• Increase the number of protected State and local outdoor recreation resources and ensure their availability for public use in perpetuity; and
• Encourage sound planning and long-term partnerships to expand the quantity and to ensure the quality of State and local outdoor recreation resources needed.

LWCF assistance can be used to:

• Acquire lands and waters or interests in lands and waters for public outdoor recreation.
• Develop basic outdoor recreation facilities to serve the public; and
• Provide major renovation work for existing outdoor recreation facilities, including replacement; or
• A combination of acquisition and development or renovation.

The RMEF Grant Program lies at the core of advancing our mission.

RMEF established the program in 1986 to provide financial and logistical support to projects that align with our priorities and goals. Grant funds raised by RMEF members, volunteers and generous donors from across the country translate into significantly more conservation accomplishment when matched with partner funds. The RMEF Grant Program also aims to build recognition for RMEF’s work, grow engagement, and boost local fundraising efforts.

Governed by clear guidelines and criteria, the RMEF Grant Program seeks to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term impacts in the conservation of natural resources and outdoor traditions. Grant project partners include federal, state, local, and tribal wildlife and land management agencies, private landowners and local stakeholders, sportsmen and women, and conservation organizations, universities, foundations and the outdoor industry. Eligible projects primarily focus on habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage.

We support organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)3 entity, federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, sportsmen’s organizations, or educational institutions. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. RMEF does not offer grants to individuals.

Wildlife Management and Research

RMEF funds wildlife management and research to keep big game healthy and thriving, including disease surveillance, big game-friendly fencing, road management, and scientific studies that expand our understanding of big game habitat, movement, interactions, and overall herd health.

RMEF’s 2026 priorities include:

• Research on migration + connectivity, critical habitat + nutrition, big game population trajectories, challenges to big game populations, and big game management solutions
• Big Game-Friendly Fencing

The Alaska Mining Impacts and Prevention Fund, established by the Alaska Conservation Foundation, aims to mitigate the effects of hardrock mining in Alaska. It prioritizes projects that address mining impacts comprehensively, supporting advocacy, policy improvement, and stronger regulations. Eligible non-profits can seek funding for community organizing, legal assistance, and outreach initiatives, fostering a collaborative approach to protect Alaska's landscapes and communities from mining-related challenges.

The Foster Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Pacific Northwest that align with priority funding issues such as social services, education, medical research, and community engagement. The foundation seeks to cultivate long-term partnerships and is committed to improving community life through various initiatives. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) status and address one of the foundation's priority issues while ensuring that funds are used within the designated geographic reach.

The Pride Foundation Community Grants Program supports LGBTQ+ organizations in the Northwest by providing consistent funding to advance equity and justice. Since 1987, over $12 million has been awarded, with a focus on innovative and grassroots organizations. The 2024 cycle includes both proactive grants and open applications, ensuring accessibility for all eligible groups. This initiative centers on racial justice and aims to empower BIPOC and TGNC communities, fostering health, education, and community-building efforts.

The Alumni Professional Development Fund, established by Creative West, focuses on supporting alumni of its leadership development programs. It aims to foster personal and professional growth through flexible funding, ensuring that artists can access resources that enhance their skills and contributions to the community. This fund emphasizes equity, storytelling, and the importance of democracy, wellness, and belonging in the creative economy, ultimately strengthening the arts sector nationally.

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.

The Camp Initiative Grant Program, a collaboration between the Rasmuson Foundation and The Alaska Community Foundation, aims to enhance access to camps and youth programs in Alaska. This initiative addresses financial barriers, offering scholarships and support for organizations to ensure equitable access to outdoor experiences. With a maximum grant amount of $45,000, it encourages diverse participation and aims to foster essential skills among Alaskan youth, promoting lifelong outdoor engagement.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Alaska

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

The Sitka Alaska Permanent Charitable Trust, established in 1995, offers grants to support cultural programs, community betterment, and educational initiatives related to the marine and terrestrial ecosystems of Sitka. Organizations must qualify as 501(c)(3) entities to apply. Applications are accepted from January to April, with a submission deadline of April 25 for consideration at the annual grant meeting.

The Atlantic Flyway Shorebird Initiative Grant supports crucial conservation efforts for shorebirds during their migration along the Atlantic Flyway. This initiative addresses threats such as human disturbance, habitat loss, and hunting in critical areas from the U.S. Atlantic coast to the Caribbean and South America. By promoting coordinated research and management, the initiative aims to ensure the survival of species like the American oystercatcher and red knot, fostering healthy migratory pathways.

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 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.

About

The Costume Society of America (CSA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded on March 23, 1973, and incorporated in the state of New York on September 12, 1973. CSA serves it members, and promotes its goals with national symposia and publications including the journal Dress and its monthly electronic newsletter CSA e-News.

The organization began forming regional groups in 1978. There are six regional groups in the United States and Canada, and one international group. Individual regions hold annual meetings, sponsor programs and publish newsletters.

Our Mission

The Costume Society of America fosters an understanding of appearance and dress practices of people across the globe through research, education, preservation, and design. Our network of members studies the past, examines the present, and anticipates the future of clothing and fashion.

Jack Handford Summer Internship

The Western Region actively supports student members who show promise as new professionals and encourages institutions and students to apply for the Jack Handford Summer Internship offered every other year, i.e. 2026 and 2028. The internship is appropriate for students with majors such as costume studies, material culture, museum studies, fashion history, or similar. The internship is intended to average duration of six weeks or a total of 120 hours. The grant may change depending on the budget; the 2024 winner received $3,000.

Student applicants must be current CSA Western Region members to apply. Check the forms: Institution Application and Student Application. All forms and other materials stated in the form should be submitted to Naomi Arnst, CSA-Western Region, Student Awards and Summer Internship Chair.

The Alaska Watchable Wildlife Conservation Trust Grant Program, managed by the Alaska Conservation Foundation, offers grants up to $5,000 every two years to support projects enhancing sustainable wildlife viewing and education. This initiative aims to conserve Alaska's unique biological diversity. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations based in Alaska or with Alaska-based programs. The next application deadline is August 2025, encouraging innovative solutions to protect Alaska's vulnerable ecosystems and promote wildlife appreciation.

The Patterson Foundation offers Oral Health Grants to support programs that enhance access to dental care for underserved communities. Eligible 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations can apply for funding up to $35,000 for capacity expansion, $10,000 for personnel support, or $10,000 for program support. The foundation prioritizes projects led by volunteer dental professionals and requires follow-up reports for continued funding. Applications are accepted year-round through a two-step process.