First Peoples Fund

KNOWING, HONORING & SHARING

First Peoples Fund supports the cultural, artistic and ancestral practices of American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian artists, families and communities, helping them to thrive, heal and carry forward Indigenous creative expression, teachings and lifeways.

Our family of artists & culture bearers is composed of thousands of Native artists and culture bearers from across the country who practice in a variety of creative mediums. They are often the creative lifeblood of their communities, carrying ideas, knowledge and memories of their people.

First Peoples Fund supports our artists and culture bearers in many ways.

Community Spirit Awards

• Awarded annually to extraordinary Native artists who embody cultural generosity and use their ancestral knowledge and artistic talents to uplift their communities. 

Fellowships and grants for Artist in Business Leadership, Cultural Capital and Native Performing Artists

• Awarded annually to Native artists and organizations through a competitive application process.

Emergency funding through Yeego Action Grants

• Grants for individual Native artists and culture bearers in need of quick financial assistance for an artistic opportunity, emergency situation or sudden unanticipated expense.

Mentorship and professional development trainings

• Native Artist Professional Development and Native Artist Ecology Building grants to support individuals and communities to grown opportunities for economic and artistic success.