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Best Grants for Native Americans

Find grants for Native American programs in education, health, language preservation, culture, and tribal development.

307

Available grants

$97.8M

Total funding

$20K

Median grant

307 grants
$97.8M total
$20K median

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307 Results based on applied filters

Wildhorse Foundation: Rapid Response Grant

Wildhorse Foundation
Association/Society
Benton County, Washington, Columbia County, Washington +5 more
Up to US $1,500
The Wildhorse Foundation offers a Rapid Response Grant for urgent needs throughout the year, with no set application deadline. Typically, one grant of up to $1,500 is awarded annually, adhering to the same guidelines as full grants. Eligible recipients include the Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation and various non-profit organizations within the surrounding regions of Oregon and Washington. This grant is not intended for event sponsorship or operational budget supplements.
Community Health Education Epidemiology & Public Health Addiction & Substance Use Disorders +9 more

Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company Foundation Grant

Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company Foundation
Private
United States
US $10,000 - US $20,000
The Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company Foundation provides financial support to non-profit organizations that promote American Indian self-sufficiency and culture. Grants are awarded quarterly, and applications must be submitted at least 30 days before meeting dates. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) compliant, focusing on entrepreneurship, education, and cultural preservation. The Foundation, established in 1997, has funded various projects, ensuring that grant funds are utilized effectively for their intended purposes.
Indigenous Sovereignty & Rights Native American Culture & Heritage Native American Services

Wabanaki Grant

Elmina B. Sewall Foundation
Private
Maine
US $10,000 - US $200,000
The Wabanaki Grant, offered by the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation, aims to support Wabanaki communities through flexible funding for initiatives that prioritize sovereignty, self-determination, and community well-being. With a total of $1.8 million available for 2025, grants range from $10,000 to $200,000, catering to both individual organizations and collaborative efforts. The foundation is dedicated to fostering Indigenous perspectives and ensuring that all funded projects align with the needs and goals of Wabanaki people.
Native American Services Native American Culture & Heritage Indigenous Sovereignty & Rights +2 more

American Indian College Fund Scholarship - High School Student

American Indian College Fund
Private
United States
US $2,000 - US $3,000
The American Indian College Fund Scholarship supports high school students who are enrolled members of federally recognized tribes, or their descendants, pursuing higher education. Applications open annually on February 1st, with a priority deadline of May 31st. This merit-based scholarship provides an opportunity for students to receive awards averaging between $2,000 and $3,000 to help fund their college education. Eligible students should apply during their last semester of high school.
Native American Services Native American Culture & Heritage Indigenous Services

Scholarships for Tribal College Students

American Indian College Fund
Private
United States
US $2,000 - US $3,000
The American Indian College Fund offers scholarships to American Indian and Alaska Native students enrolled at Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs). Applications open annually on February 1st, with a priority deadline of May 31st. Eligible students can apply for various merit-based scholarships, with awards averaging between $2,000 and $3,000. The College Fund encourages applications by the priority deadline for a better chance of funding.
Native American Services Native American Culture & Heritage Indigenous Services

Native Voices Rising Grants

Common Counsel Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
Native Voices Rising (NVR) offers grants to empower Native-led grassroots organizations in the U.S. With over $16 million awarded since inception, NVR focuses on enhancing lives through collective action and advocacy. Eligible organizations must be Native-led and engage community members in policy improvement efforts. NVR supports initiatives addressing environmental justice, health, and youth involvement, with a commitment to fostering leadership and social change within Native communities.
Indigenous Sovereignty & Rights Native American Culture & Heritage Native American Services +1 more

Scholarships for Non-Tribal College Students

American Indian College Fund
Private
United States
US $2,000 - US $3,000
The American Indian College Fund offers scholarships for non-Tribal college students, providing financial support for American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing higher education at accredited institutions. Applications open annually on February 1st, with a priority deadline of May 31st. Award amounts typically range from $2,000 to $3,000. Students are encouraged to apply early to ensure priority review for available scholarships, fostering educational opportunities and success for Indigenous youth.
Native American Services Native American Culture & Heritage Indigenous Services

Forest County Potawatomi Grants

Forest County Potawatomi Foundation
Association/Society
Forest County, Wisconsin, Milwaukee County, Wisconsin +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Forest County Potawatomi Foundation aims to combat poverty and promote community development through grants to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations. With a commitment to responsible citizenship, the foundation supports initiatives in arts, education, health, and environmental services, focusing on areas with significant economic challenges. Since its inception in 1999, it has allocated over $30 million to various charitable causes, fostering self-sufficiency and improving the quality of life for families in Forest County and the Greater Milwaukee area.
Art & Culture Civic Affairs Community Development & Revitalization +10 more

Yocha Dehe Community Fund

Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation
State/Local Government
United States
Unspecified amount
The Yocha Dehe Community Fund, established by the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation in 2000, supports initiatives that strengthen communities throughout Yolo County and beyond. With nearly $40 million in grants, the Fund prioritizes projects in health, education, Native arts, and environmental protection. The Tribe's commitment involves active participation in the grant process, ensuring impactful partnerships with various organizations. New applicants must register on the grant portal and submit a letter of inquiry to be considered for funding.
Youth Services Native American Services Native American Culture & Heritage +5 more

Aulani Resort 10th Anniversary Scholarship

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Aulani Resort 10th Anniversary Scholarship, offered by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, supports students from West Oahu pursuing degrees in Travel Industry Management or Hawaiian Studies. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7, and be residents of Hawaii. This scholarship not only fosters educational growth but also emphasizes the importance of cultural heritage and community engagement, ensuring that future generations of students can thrive academically and professionally.
Education - Higher Education Native American Services Academic Scholarship Programs +2 more

Blossom Kalama Evans Memorial Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Blossom Kalama Evans Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the family of Blossom Kalama Evans, honors her legacy as a prominent golfer and community advocate in Hilo, Hawaii. This scholarship supports students in good academic standing who demonstrate financial need and are committed to their education. Preference is given to applicants with Hawaiian ancestry or those majoring in fields related to Hawaiian culture. Recipients must provide two letters of recommendation.
Native American Culture & Heritage Native American Services

David Moses Bridges Scholarship

Maine Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The David Moses Bridges Scholarship honors the legacy of a renowned Passamaquoddy artist and activist, providing essential support for individuals dedicated to the preservation of Wabanaki culture, traditional arts, and environmental stewardship. This scholarship aims to foster connections between master artists and apprentices, promote research on David's impactful life and work, and protect culturally significant natural spaces. It empowers artists and scholars to continue the vital work of preserving indigenous knowledge and practices for future generations.
Environmental Conservation Environmental Stewardship Native American Services +3 more

Dakota and Ojibwe Language Revitalization Grant

Minnesota Indian Affairs Council
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $50,000 - US $62,100

Mission:

Dakota and Ojibwe are spoken and valued as vibrant, living, and thriving languages throughout Minnesota.

Vision:

To protect and empower our children, parents, and elders in the ongoing revitalization of our languages, thereby maintaining Tribal sovereignty.

Minnesota Indian Affairs Council

2027 Dakota and Ojibwe Language Revitalization Grant

According to the language set forth in the 2025 Minnesota Session Laws, 94th Legislature, Chapter 36, Article 4, Sec. 9, funds were allocated for the Indian Affairs Council to provide grants to preserve Dakota and Ojibwe Indian language and to foster education programs and immersion programs in Dakota and Ojibwe language. There is $498,750 available for one-year competitive language grants.

The Dakota and Ojibwe Language Revitalization Grant program, which funds revitalization of Minnesota’s first languages, is underwritten by an appropriation from the state’s Legacy Fund Amendment, MN Legacy Fund Amendment Information. The eligible project areas are intentionally broad and somewhat flexible to allow creativity and innovation with intent that a diverse array of projects can be funded. Recognized educational institutions in Minnesota, and 510 (C)(3) non-profits located in the State of Minnesota and currently registered with the Secretary of State’s office are strongly encouraged to apply.

Native American Services Native American Culture & Heritage Arts / Culture Access & Participation +1 more

Blandin Foundation - Community Wealth Building Grants

Blandin Foundation
Private
Aitkin County, Minnesota, Beltrami County, Minnesota +3 more
US $25,000 - US $150,000
The Blandin Foundation's Community Wealth Building Grants aim to empower rural communities in Minnesota by addressing economic disparities and fostering sustainable growth. Targeting low-income, diverse populations, the grants focus on collaborative projects that enhance affordable housing, promote local businesses, and improve access to resources. With funding ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the foundation seeks innovative solutions to strengthen community ties and support marginalized populations, ensuring a robust future for rural Minnesota.
Native American Services Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Entrepreneurship +20 more

Ocotillo Wind Tribal Mitigation Program

Ocotillo Wind Imperial Valley Fund
Corporate
Imperial County, California
Unspecified amount
The Ocotillo Wind Tribal Mitigation Program, established by Ocotillo Express LLC, aims to support local Native American Tribes in preserving their culture and heritage. Administered by the Imperial Valley Community Foundation, the program funds initiatives such as Tribal Monitor Training, Curation Management, and College Scholarships. By creating dedicated funds for each participating Tribe, the program not only addresses the impacts of the Ocotillo Wind Project but also fosters community engagement and collaboration among the Tribes.
Native American Services Indigenous Sovereignty & Rights Native American Culture & Heritage

Grant for Improvements to Facilities located on Existing Homesteads

Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL)
State/Local Government
Hawaii
Up to US $1,000,000
The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) offers a grant program to improve facilities on existing homesteads, supporting Native Hawaiian communities. This initiative enhances infrastructure, health services, and cultural facilities, fostering sustainable development. Nonprofits and community associations can apply for funding to strengthen homestead communities and increase access to vital services. Grants are awarded based on project readiness, organizational capacity, and community involvement, aiming to improve the quality of life for Native Hawaiian beneficiaries.
Land / Habitat Conservation Homeownership Native American Services +1 more

Bush Prize: Native Nations

Good Relatives Collaborative
Association/Society
Minnesota, North Dakota +1 more
Up to US $250,000
The Bush Prize: Native Nations honors Native-led organizations committed to innovative solutions in their communities. Grants can reach up to $500,000, covering 25% of the organization’s previous fiscal year expenses. This annual award emphasizes collaboration and resourcefulness, supporting entities that are deeply valued in their communities and have proven success in addressing challenges. The program, a partnership with four community grant partners, aims to empower organizations in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and 23 Native Nations.
Native American Services Native American Culture & Heritage

Competitive Community Grant- Native American Advised Fund ( Fall Cycle)

Santa Fe Community Foundation
Private
Mora County, New Mexico, Rio Arriba County, New Mexico +2 more
US $5,000 - US $15,000
The Native American Advised Fund, established in 1993 by the Santa Fe Community Foundation, supports Indigenous communities in New Mexico through grants recommended by an all-Native advisory committee. With over $825,000 awarded to date, this fund provides vital resources for organizations based in or serving Santa Fe, Rio Arriba, San Miguel, and Mora counties. Eligible organizations can apply for grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, ensuring continued support for Native-led initiatives.
Native American Services Native American Culture & Heritage

Maada’ookiing Grants

Northland Foundation
Private
Aitkin County, Minnesota, Carlton County, Minnesota +5 more
Up to US $5,000
Maada’ookiing Grants provide up to $5,000 to support Native American-led community building initiatives. The program aims to strengthen culture and community among Native American peoples by fostering resilience and creative solutions. Guided by a Native American design team and an Advisory Board, Maada’ookiing emphasizes collaboration and relationship-building with Native nations. The grants focus on areas such as youth support, language preservation, and civic engagement, helping to bring community-identified issues to the forefront.
Native American Services Native American Culture & Heritage Indigenous Services

Muckleshoot Charity Fund

Muckleshoot Indian Tribe
Private
Washington
US $1,500 - US $5,000
The Muckleshoot Charity Fund supports community organizations in Washington, offering grants between $1,500 and $5,000. Priorities include education, health services, culture, and advocacy for communities of color and Native American programs. Applications are accepted year-round, reviewed quarterly, and funds are sourced from Muckleshoot Casino profits. Eligible applicants must be non-profits or government agencies addressing identified community needs, ensuring impactful contributions without exceeding one grant per year.
Education Health & Medicine Human & Social Services +6 more

Snoqualmie Tribal Organization Grant - Native Services

Snoqualmie Tribal Organization
Private
Washington
Up to US $50,000
The Snoqualmie Tribal Organization Grant aims to support nonprofits serving the Native community in Washington State. Offering up to $50,000, this grant encourages initiatives in arts, health, and cultural programs. Since 2010, the Snoqualmie Tribe has generously donated over $8 million to various organizations, fostering community development and support across the region. Eligible applicants must be IRS-registered 501c3 nonprofits located within Washington.
Native American Services Native American Culture & Heritage Indigenous Sovereignty & Rights

Indian Land Tenure Foundation - Economic Opportunity

Indian Land Tenure Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Indian Land Tenure Foundation's Economic Opportunity Grant aims to empower American Indian nations by enhancing their control over reservation lands. This initiative addresses historical challenges in land ownership and economic development, providing essential resources and tools for communities to manage land effectively. By focusing on land acquisition and productive land use, the Foundation supports sustainable growth and cultural preservation, ultimately fostering economic self-sufficiency among Indigenous populations.
Native American Culture & Heritage Native American Services Economic Services & Development

Indian Land Tenure Foundation - Legal Reform Grant Program

Indian Land Tenure Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Indian Land Tenure Foundation's Legal Reform Grant Program aims to empower American Indian nations by addressing systemic barriers to land ownership and control. This initiative promotes collaboration on projects like estate planning, land policy reform, and engaging government leaders in discussions about tribal sovereignty. By focusing on legal reforms, the program seeks to rectify longstanding inequities and enhance the ability of tribes to manage their land effectively.
Native American Culture & Heritage Native American Services Legal Services

Vadon Foundation Grant

Vadon Foundation
Private
Canada, United States
Unspecified amount
The Vadon Foundation Grant supports innovative, community-based initiatives aimed at sustaining healthy indigenous nations. By empowering visionary changemakers, the foundation addresses multi-generational challenges through focused programming in areas like language revitalization, community leadership, and addressing crises such as food insecurity. The foundation seeks to foster self-determination and sustainability within native communities, ensuring that future generations can thrive culturally and socially.
Indigenous Sovereignty & Rights Native American Culture & Heritage Native American Services

Good Relatives Collaborative Grants

Good Relatives Collaborative
Association/Society
Minnesota, North Dakota +1 more
US $50,000 - US $100,000
The Good Relatives Collaborative Grants, funded by the Bush Foundation, aim to empower grassroots and Native-led organizations across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and the 23 Native nations. This initiative provides responsive grants of $50,000 and $100,000 to support community leadership, healing, and cultural revitalization. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the program seeks to address the unique needs of Native communities while promoting accessible philanthropy and sustainable growth.
Native American Services Native American Culture & Heritage Indigenous Sovereignty & Rights +1 more

Udall Undergraduate Scholarship

Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation
Federal Government
United States
Up to US $7,500
The Udall Undergraduate Scholarship, awarded by the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation, supports future leaders in environmental, tribal public policy, and health care fields. With 55 scholarships of $7,000 each expected in 2025, this highly competitive program requires students to participate in their schools' internal competitions. Scholars benefit from networking opportunities and access to the Udall Alumni Network, fostering collaboration and growth in their respective fields.
Native American Services Environmental Conservation Native American Culture & Heritage +5 more

SMF: General Purpose - Small Grants

Spirit Mountain Foundation
Private
Benton County, Oregon, Clackamas County, Oregon +20 more
Up to US $7,500
The Spirit Mountain Foundation offers the SMF: General Purpose - Small Grants program, which supports 501c3 nonprofits in 11 Oregon counties. With a maximum funding request of $7,500, this program emphasizes flexibility across various sectors, including education and environmental preservation. Eligibility is limited to organizations that haven't completed previous grants and do not exceed 50% of the total project budget. Priority is given to projects aligning with the foundation's key areas.
Art & Culture Native American Services Native American Culture & Heritage +30 more

Grants for Native Americans Highlights

Grants for Native Americans provide funding to support education, healthcare, and cultural preservation within Indigenous communities. The following grants help nonprofits address systemic inequities, promote sovereignty, and enhance community well-being.


Search Instrumentl's Native Americans Grants Database


Discover 81 funding opportunities for Native American initiatives, with $67.5M available. Instrumentl supports nonprofits with tailored grant recommendations, funding insights, and deadline management to strengthen Indigenous-led programs and projects.

Grant Insights : Grants for Native Americans

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Uncommon — grants in this category are less prevalent than in others.

81 Grants for Native Americans grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

33 Grants for Native Americans over $25K in average grant size

28 Grants for Native Americans over $50K in average grant size

13 Grants for Native Americans supporting general operating expenses

66 Grants for Native Americans supporting programs / projects

200+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Native American Services

200+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Native American Culture & Heritage

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for grants for Native Americans?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
31.2%
Q2
20.9%
Q3
19.9%
Q4
27.9%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Grants for Native Americans?

Grants are most commonly $50,000.

$300 $300 Min.
$50,000 $50 K Median
$1,274,271 $1.3 M Average
$46,000,000 $46 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Nonprofits that are eligible to win grants for Native Americans include tribal governments, Native-led nonprofits, cultural organizations, and education or economic development programs serving Native American communities. Many grants require applicants to be 501(c)(3) organizations, federally-recognized tribes, nonprofits in specific geographic locations, or Indian tribal governments, and may prioritize projects that promote self-sufficiency, cultural preservation, and health equity for Indigenous communities.

Grants for Native Americans typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q1, with 31.2% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q3.

Native Americans grants are offered to nonprofit programs that support initiatives that enhance tribal independence, improve access to healthcare, expand educational opportunities, and preserve Indigenous culture and language within Indigenous communities. Funders also aim to reduce economic disparities and systemic inequities, promote sustainable development and sovereignty, enhance community well-being, and protect Native lands. There are a little more than 90 grants available and $41.1 million in funding for nonprofit groups that address these challenges.

Funding for Native Americans grants varies widely, with award amounts ranging from a minimum of $300 to a maximum of $46,000,000. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $50,000, while the average grant awarded is $1,274,271. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.

Of the $41.1 million available, most comes from private funders like the Common Counsel Foundation, Three Rivers Foundation, Social Justice Fund, and The Native Arts & Cultures Foundation. In addition, there are many federal and state/local government funders. On the federal side, funding is available through the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, the Indian Health Service, and the U.S. Department of the Interior, to name a few. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Alaska State Council on the Arts, and Maryland State Arts Council are examples of funding available on a state and local level.

Native American organizations can enhance their success rate by concentrating on all of these key areas:

  • Align with funder priorities – Align projects with funder priorities and showcase cultural and community impact.
  • Use measurable outcomes – Provide strong data on economic or health disparities.
  • Build strategic partnerships – Collaborate with tribal leaders.
  • Develop a compelling narrative – Tell real-life narratives of individuals living in Indigenous communities who have been supported by your efforts to highlight the significance of the programs.

Not sure how much to request in a grant application? Learn how to calculate the right amount with our grant request sizing guide.

Instrumentl helps Native American-led nonprofits streamline their grant researching by simplifying the grant application process. Not only does the platform help nonprofits discover relevant funding opportunities, track deadlines, and analyze funder-giving patterns. The platform's automated alerts ensure users never miss a deadline and detailed funder insights help organizations tailor their applications to align with grantor priorities. See how the Los Angeles LGBT Center cut down weekly admin time from 2-4 hours to less than 30 minutes.