First Nations Development Institute

The First Nations Development Institute works to strengthen American Indian economies to support healthy Native communities. It invests in and creates innovative institutions and models that strengthen asset control and support economic development for American Indian people and their communities. With the support of individuals, foundations, and corporate and tribal donors, the institute improves economic conditions for Native Americans through technical assistance and training, advocacy and policy, and direct financial grants. It also does knowledge work to support effective giving by both Native and non-Native foundations and philanthropic efforts. This grant is for general operating support and supplements an existing grant as part of the Knowledge for Better Philanthropy strategy.

This grant will provide flexible, multiyear support for the newly created California Tribal Fund, housed at First Nations Development Institute and guided by an advisory board of members from several tribes. The fund will support California-based, native-led nonprofits and tribal programs in controlling and protecting their food systems, water, languages, traditional ecological knowledge, and land. The fund’s approach includes serving both federally recognized tribes and non-recognized tribes, seeking out culture bearers who are doing grassroots work and ensuring they are supported, and working in a manner that is inclusive and empowering to tribal people.