A Journey To What Matters: Increased Alaska Native Art & Culture
The Journey to What Matters: Increased Alaska Native Art & Culture Grant is made possible with generous support from Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies (MACP). This program helps sustain and expand tangible Alaska Native art traditions through projects that strengthen cultural knowledge and intergenerational learning.
The CIRI Foundation (TCF) is honored to administer this grant, which supports tribes, villages, and Alaska Native artists in preserving and sharing tangible cultural traditions. While the program celebrates diverse cultural practices, priority is given to projects that focus on tangible arts—ensuring these traditions are actively practiced, taught, and passed down.
The JWM Grant supports projects celebrating and sustaining Alaska Native arts and cultural traditions.
FUNDING PRIORITIES
The Journey to What Matters Grant funds projects that: Expand and sustain tangible Alaska Native art traditions, ensuring cultural practices are actively taught, practiced, and shared
Encourage the transfer of hands-on artistic skills through mentorship and intergenerational learning
Support Elders, artists, and culture bearers in sharing traditional techniques and materials
Prioritize hands-on artistic and cultural traditions over conceptual or intangible projects
Multi-generational projects that connect Elders and youth are a priority for this grant.
HOW TO APPLY
Applications must be submitted before the posted deadlines. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Contact TCF early for assistance if you have questions about eligibility or required materials.
Required Documents
- Completed application form
- Project proposal
- Budget form and budget narrative
- Proposal narrative detailing project goals, timeline, and expected impact
- Signed Project Grant Agreement
- W-9 form
The CIRI Foundation is proud to support projects that preserve and celebrate Alaska Native culture in the Cook Inlet region. If your project aligns with these goals, we encourage you to apply.
ELIGIBILITY & FUNDING GUIDELINES
The JWM Grant supports projects that celebrate and sustain tangible Alaska Native arts and cultural traditions.
Tribes and tribal organizations
Village councils and governments
Nonprofits working to preserve Alaska Native arts & culture
To keep funding focused on cultural preservation, the grant does not cover the following:
🚫 Endowments, building projects, or equipment purchases
🚫 Grants to private foundations or funds intended for redistribution
🚫 Projects that are already completed or nearly finished
🚫 Re-granting funds for purposes such as travel or scholarships
🚫 Lobbying, political activities, or advocacy efforts
GRANT EXPECTATIONS AND REPORTING
Project Start Dates: Funding applies only to projects that begin after TCF approval.
Grant Reporting: Grantees must submit a final evaluation report within 30 days of project completion.
Acknowledgment Requirement: All project materials must include “Funded in part by The CIRI Foundation” (minimum 11pt font) and display the TCF logo.
NEXT DEADLINE: MARCH 7, 2025
📞 Questions? Contact TCF at (907) 793-3575 or email tcf@thecirifoundation.org