Growing Tribal Economies Through Forest Market Innovations Grant

The Growing Tribal Economies Through Forest Market Innovations grant program, initiated by First Nations Development Institute, aims to empower Tribes and Alaska Native Villages to engage in emerging markets that enhance forest health and resilience. With funding of $200,000 to $500,000 per grant, this initiative supports projects focusing on sustainability, innovation, and traditional knowledge. Eligible applicants are encouraged to develop forest products, certifications, and practices that contribute positively to biodiversity and ecosystem management.

About First Nations Development Institute
First Nations invests in and creates innovative institutions and models that strengthen asset control and support economic development for American Indian people and their communities. Founded in 1980, First Nations began its national grantmaking program in 1993. Through mid-year 2024, First Nations has successfully managed 3,473 grants totaling $85 million to Native American projects and organizations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. Territory American Samoa.
First Nations is now accepting applications under our Stewarding Native Lands program to support tribal engagement in new or emerging markets that promote forest health and resilience. First Nations expects to award up to 12 grants ranging between $200,000 and $500,000 each to eligible Tribes and to Alaska Native Villages and corporations. This grant support is made possible through funding from the U.S. Forest Service.
Emerging markets supported by this grant opportunity include, but are not limited to, developing forest products and corresponding certifications, and/or addressing the restoration or protection of biodiversity, carbon storage, and water on lands. Tribal projects that demonstrate the following are strongly encouraged:
Accesses a new or emerging marketDemonstrates innovationCenters traditional knowledge and tribal valuesAttracts private investmentsCreates sustainable revenue that can be reinvested in stewardship
Examples of allowable activities under this funding opportunity include, but are not limited to:
Project planning and implementation costsTribal capacity building (e.g., specialized trainings, staff positions)Baseline data collection, forest assessments and feasibility studiesEstablishing forest management practices (which should measurably demonstrate “net positive” outcomes for ecosystem benefits)Development of forest management practices, certifications, and protocols that will enable market access

Eligibility

Tribes and Alaska Native Villages and corporations are eligible to apply.

Ineligibility

Examples of unallowable activities under this funding opportunity include:Purchase of real estateLobbyingLitigationEntertainmentCapital construction projects (including the construction, purchase, renovation, and/or furnishing of facilities)EndowmentsScholarships or tuition assistance