Best Grants for Native Americans in Wisconsin

Federally recognized tribal governments in Wisconsin can receive matching support for summer programs that engage Native youth ages 13–19 in natural resource conservation projects. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources funds hands-on, educational experiences including staff salaries, youth stipends, training, equipment and vehicle rental, materials, and limited construction, with awards up to US $22,727.

Native-led organizations and 501(c)(3) groups in Wisconsin serving Native American communities can apply for Wisconsin Arts Board’s Woodland Indian Arts grants, awarding US $1,500 - US $6,000 for traditional or contemporary arts projects. Funding supports administration, documentation, technical assistance, promotion, and planning that build long-term cultural and economic support for Native arts.

The NATIVE Act Tribal Tourism Cooperative Agreement aims to enhance cultural heritage tourism through collaboration with Tribes, Tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations. By providing technical assistance and capacity-building support, this initiative seeks to increase visitation and enrich tourism activities while respecting native traditions and values. The selected recipient will coordinate with federal agencies to ensure effective implementation, with funding available for an initial year and potential continuation for up to five years based on performance.

Federally recognized Tribal governments in Wisconsin can seek funding for wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, and related research and education projects. Focused on tribal wildlife and habitat priorities, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service invites applications for US $25,000 - US $200,000 to support planning, on-the-ground actions, monitoring, and conservation education benefiting culturally important species.

The Native American Research Centers for Health (NARCH) program supports federally-recognized American Indian and Alaska Native Tribes and organizations in advancing health-related research. It aims to enhance research careers and infrastructure through a competitive application process. Funded by the US Dept. of Health & Human Services, this initiative invites eligible entities to apply, ensuring that only high-quality proposals undergo peer review for potential funding.

Native artists, scholars, educators, and environmental advocates working on Wabanaki culture and environmental stewardship can apply for support preserving traditional knowledge, resources, and spaces. Focused on cultural, artistic, and environmental preservation, Maine Community Foundation invites applicants nationwide, including Wisconsin, to pursue apprenticeships, research, publications, and projects honoring David Moses Bridges’ legacy.

Native American organizations across the U.S. and charitable organizations or local governments in the Siletz Tribe’s Oregon service area can receive funding for education, health, housing, public safety, addiction treatment, arts, environment, and cultural or historic preservation projects. The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians provide these grants, which may benefit Native-focused programs serving communities like Wisconsin.

American Indian and Alaska Native high school seniors in Wisconsin planning full-time study at an accredited nonprofit U.S. college or Tribal College can receive scholarship support for higher education costs. The American Indian College Fund awards US $2,000 - US $3,000 merit-based scholarships through a single annual application covering its full portfolio of opportunities.

American Indian and Alaska Native students in Wisconsin enrolled at Tribal Colleges and Universities can apply for scholarships awarding US $2,000 - US $3,000 for their studies. Offered by the American Indian College Fund, one annual application considers TCU students for a broad portfolio of merit-based scholarship opportunities across the U.S.

American Indian and Alaska Native students in Wisconsin pursuing certificate, undergraduate, or graduate degrees at accredited nonprofit U.S. colleges and universities can receive merit-based scholarships supporting their education, averaging US $2,000 - US $3,000. The American Indian College Fund accepts one annual application to consider students for its full portfolio of Native-focused awards.

Wisconsin Native American organizations and programs supporting Native services, culture, education, health, or environmental protection can access funding through Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation’s Community Fund. Grants prioritize initiatives that help people help themselves, especially in Native arts and culture, Indigenous health and wellness, environmental protection, and the advancement of Native rights and Tribal sovereignty across the U.S.

Native-led organizations and community-based initiatives working on language revitalization, MMIWG2S, innovative community leadership, or COVID-19-related food insecurity can access funding through Vadon Foundation to strengthen indigenous communities. Programs in Wisconsin may be eligible as part of the foundation’s broader support for Native communities in the U.S. and Canada.

Tribal governments, local and state governments, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on Native American land issues in Wisconsin can apply for grants supporting legal and policy reforms. Grants from Indian Land Tenure Foundation help advance estate planning, land policy development, landowner associations, and initiatives that strengthen tribal sovereignty and control over Indian land.

Wisconsin Native American communities and supporting governments and 501(c)(3) nonprofits can seek funding to improve the use and control of reservation lands. Indian Land Tenure Foundation’s Economic Opportunity grants back projects that prioritize land acquisition planning, expand productive land use, and develop mechanisms for increased direct owner management in Indian Country nationwide.

Tribal governments, Native American organizations, and Native American serving schools in Wisconsin can seek funding for cultural programming, education, health, infrastructure, and other Native American services. Grants from Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community support both non-cash donations and monetary awards for projects ranging from program support to larger capital and economic development initiatives, with one monetary and one non-cash request allowed per fiscal year.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with at least three years of operations can seek project funding for Native American services and culture, youth, elders, health, environment, and community development in several Wisconsin counties. With a mission to fight poverty and promote opportunity, Forest County Potawatomi Foundation prioritizes programs serving low-income communities; apply once every 12 months, at least four months before projects begin.

Sophomore and junior undergraduates focused on environmental issues, Tribal public policy, or Native American and Alaska Native health care can receive up to US $7,500 for academic expenses, plus leadership development. With a mission to support future leaders, the Udall Foundation provides U.S. students, including those from Wisconsin, with scholarships and access to an active alumni network.

Nonprofit and fiscally sponsored organizations serving residents of the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa in Wisconsin can seek $500 - $5,000 for cultural, health, environmental, and artistic programs. The Red Cliff/Miskwaabikaang Fund, via Boreal Waters Community Foundation, supports Native American language and culture revitalization, traditional arts, social services, and environmental protection projects.

Native-led grassroots organizations in Wisconsin and across the U.S. that organize and advocate for Native communities can apply for Native Voices Rising general operating support grants. Administered by Common Counsel Foundation, this funding strengthens leadership development, community-driven campaigns, and collective action to improve policies and conditions in Native communities.

U.S.-based organizations working on Indigenous land care, ecological renewal, and cultural or spiritual connection to the Earth, including those serving Native communities in Wisconsin, can seek support for land-based, intergenerational projects. Kalliopeia Foundation provides funding to visionary, well-managed initiatives that uplift Indigenous leadership, especially women, and foster broader community inspiration and healing.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. supporting American Indian self-sufficiency, education, or cultural preservation can seek project-specific funding, typically US $10,000 - US $20,000. With a mission to advance American Indian communities, Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company Foundation provides grants that may benefit Wisconsin programs serving Native Americans.

The Native Forward CPA Examination Funding provides crucial financial assistance to American Indians and Alaska Natives for covering the costs associated with the CPA examination. This initiative empowers students and professionals to pursue CPA licensure by assisting with application, registration, and exam fees. Eligible applicants can receive support for one section of the exam at a time, ensuring access to essential resources for advancing their careers and contributing positively to their communities.

The Native Forward Community Impact Research Funding supports doctoral candidates conducting research that addresses issues affecting Indian Country. This initiative provides essential financial assistance for data collection, analysis, and research travel, ensuring that Native perspectives are included in academic discourse. By fostering the next generation of Native leaders, this funding aims to empower scholars and enhance community impact through education and advocacy, ultimately preserving and enriching Native cultures.

The Miller Indigenous Economic Development Fellowship, established by the Native Forward Scholars Fund, provides financial assistance to American Indian and Alaska Native doctoral candidates engaged in economic research impacting Native communities. This fellowship supports costs associated with data collection, analysis, and travel. It aims to enhance the representation of Native scholars in economics, addressing the current underrepresentation in the field. Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply to further their research and contribute to their communities.

The BIE Professional Examination Funding, provided by Native Forward Scholars Fund in partnership with BIE, offers financial assistance to support Native students in taking professional examinations, including Bar Examination funding. This award covers registration fees, preparatory course costs, and other exam-related expenses. Applicants must have graduated within one year and can only receive assistance for one exam. This initiative aims to empower Native scholars and enhance their professional visibility and opportunities.

The BIE Professional Development Funding for STEM Educators and Students, offered by the Native Forward Scholars Fund, supports training opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) for TCU faculty, staff, and students. This funding assists with costs related to professional development including continuing education, conferences, and certifications. Eligible applicants include educators at BIE-funded or controlled schools, as well as those at institutions with significant Native American populations, fostering increased representation and support for Native scholars.

The BIE Internship Funding for STEM Students, offered by the Native Forward Scholars Fund, provides financial assistance to Native students for approved internships related to STEM. This initiative helps cover costs such as travel, living expenses, and daily commuting, facilitating valuable professional experiences. By supporting these students, the program aims to enhance Native representation in STEM fields and empower future leaders within their communities, contributing positively to society's growth and diversity.