Native Voices Rising

Native Voices Rising is a collaborative partnership between Native Americans in Philanthropy and Common Counsel Foundation supporting Native-led organizing and advocacy efforts.

Geographic Scope: United States (American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities across the country, both on and off reservations)

Focus Areas:

• Indigenous worldview and cultural preservation
• Native sovereignty
• Environmental and water justice
• Climate justice
• Economic development
• Health and healing
• Language preservation
• Reproductive justice
• Civic engagement and voting rights
• Youth and intergenerational engagement

Eligibility Criteria:

• Native leadership
• Membership of Native people (typically multi-generational)
• Incorporation of Native community-centered values
• Organizing or advocacy programs that amplify Native voices to win positive change in policy or corporate accountability
• Rooted in a Native community
• Led by Native people
• Hold a vision for change that improves lives of Native community members

Grant Amounts:

• New grant partners: $10,000 - $30,000 (average $19,342)
• Returning grant partners: $15,000

Key Features:

• Community-led grantmaking model with Native community members empowering decision-making
• Participatory grantmaking approach with Native community reviewers screening and reviewing applications
• Six to eight-month review process
• Capacity-building program offering trainings and peer-to-peer support
• Unrestricted funds provided
• Decision-making held in hands of Native leaders and advocates

Background: Since inception, awarded nearly $5.5 million to more than 145 Native-led grassroots organizations. In 2020, awarded $2 million in two cycles combined. In 2021 (spring and fall cycles), awarded $2 million total. 10th anniversary campaign in 2022 raised $10 million. Goal to increase to $10 million per year in grants awarded by 2025.

Application Process

Timeline: Typically open for application cycles (2022 cycle: May 16 - July 15, 2022)

Process:

1. Native community members review and screen applications
2. Applications reviewed over six to eight-month period
3. Native community members make final grant recommendations

Required Materials: Specific application materials not detailed in provided content

How to Apply:

• Visit NativeVoicesRising.org for full eligibility information and application details
• Email [email protected] for questions
• Complete application through NativeVoicesRising.org

Note: Application process is designed to be accessible and minimize burden on organizations. Grant cycles may feature automatic renewals for current partners to streamline process.