Investing in Alaska Native Potential Since 1982
The CIRI Foundation promotes individual self-development and economic self-sufficiency for Cook Inlet Region, Inc. shareholders and their descendants through scholarships, grants, and educational programs.
Our Mission
To promote self-development and economic self-sufficiency through education.
TCF was established by Cook Inlet Region, Inc. (CIRI) — one of 13 Alaska Native Regional Corporations created under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971. Since 1982, we've awarded over $46 million in scholarships and grants to CIRI shareholders and their descendants, supporting higher education, career training, and cultural preservation across Alaska and beyond.
How TCF Works
From federal legislation to community impact — follow the dollar.
ANCSA (1971)
The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act transfers land and capital to 13 regional corporations.
CIRI Founded (1972)
Cook Inlet Region, Inc. is established to manage resources and grow shareholder wealth in Southcentral Alaska.
TCF Established (1982)
CIRI creates The CIRI Foundation — a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit endowed to invest in education and cultural heritage.
Endowment Grows
TCF's $63.9M endowment generates annual investment returns that fund all scholarship and grant programs.
Scholarships & Grants Awarded
$46.6M+ in scholarships and $4.4M+ in heritage grants distributed to date — every dollar going directly to students, artists, and communities.
Impact Returns to Alaska
Alumni carry knowledge back into Alaska Native communities — as nurses, teachers, tradespeople, artists, and leaders. The cycle continues.
13 Regions, One Foundation
TCF serves the Cook Inlet region — explore all 13 ANCSA corporations.
Selected Region
Cook Inlet Region, Inc. (CIRI)
The CIRI Foundation was established by Cook Inlet Region, Inc. to invest in the education and cultural heritage of its shareholders and their descendants.
Browse All 13 Regions
What We Stand For
Six principles that guide every scholarship awarded and every grant funded.
Self-Sufficiency
We believe in empowering individuals to build independent, sustainable futures through education and skills.
Excellence
We hold ourselves and our beneficiaries to high standards, celebrating achievement at every level.
Community
Our work is rooted in Cook Inlet Region communities and the broader Alaska Native network.
Integrity
Transparent processes, accountable stewardship, and honest communication guide every decision.
Innovation
From trade certifications to digital arts, we fund the future — not just tradition.
Cultural Heritage
Alaska Native languages, art, and traditions are living systems. We invest in their continuation.
Our Journey
Four decades of investing in education, culture, and community.
TCF Founded
Cook Inlet Region, Inc. establishes The CIRI Foundation to invest in the educational and career development of its shareholders and descendants.
First Major Milestone
Cumulative scholarship awards surpass $1 million, funding hundreds of students across Alaska and the Lower 48.
Heritage Grants Launched
Heritage Project Grants debut, supporting Alaska Native art, language, and cultural preservation projects statewide.
CTE Expansion
Career and Technical Education scholarships formalized, supporting vocational training and trade certifications year-round.
Expanded Reach
TCF expands eligibility criteria and increases award amounts, reaching more CIRI shareholders and descendants than ever.
Journey to What Matters
A Journey to What Matters grant program launches, increasing Alaska Native art and culture funding capacity.
Digital Transformation
Online portal launched for applications, document uploads, and real-time status tracking.
$46M+ Awarded
Cumulative scholarship and grant funding exceeds $46 million. Over 5,000 students and 100+ cultural projects supported.
Where Are They Now?
Tracking outcomes and impact across 40+ years of investment in Alaska Native futures.
$46.6M+
Total scholarships awarded
$4.4M+
Heritage grants funded
5,000+
Students supported
100+
Cultural projects funded
40+
Years of continuous service
3
Village partnerships
Where TCF Alumni Work
Alumni Location Breakdown
62%
Alaska (in-state)
14%
Pacific Northwest (WA, OR)
8%
Southwest (AZ, NM, TX)
12%
Other Lower 48
4%
Outside U.S.
Data is representative and aggregated from TCF records and alumni surveys. Individual privacy is always protected.
By the Numbers
CIRI Family of Nonprofits
TCF works alongside a dedicated network of nonprofits established by Cook Inlet Region, Inc. to serve different aspects of community wellbeing.
The CIRI Foundation
Promoting economic self-sufficiency through scholarships, grants, and cultural program funding.
Southcentral Foundation
Providing holistic healthcare for Alaska Native and American Indian people in the region.
Cook Inlet Housing Authority
Creating affordable housing opportunities and promoting community independence.
Cook Inlet Tribal Council
Connecting Alaska Native people to their potential through education, employment, and family services.
Leadership
Guided by the Board of Directors and accountable to CIRI shareholders and descendants.
Jeffrey A. Gonnason, OD
TCF Board Chair
Cynthia L. Muller
Board Director
Louis “Lou” Nagy Jr.
Board Director
Jessica Greiner
Board Director
Donna James
Board Director
Ryan Newton
Board Director
Tosha Swan Pereira
Board Director
Deanna Sackett
Board Director
Susan Wells
Board Director
David Wight
Board Director
Cheryl Wilga, PhD
Board Director
Board membership and officers are listed on the live site. Photos shown here are sourced from public profile images on CIRI’s website where available.
Alaska Native Culture is a Living System
TCF's Heritage Project Grants fund language documentation, traditional arts, dance, storytelling, and museum partnerships. We don't preserve culture in a glass case — we invest in its active practice and transmission.
Through A Journey to What Matters, we've expanded support for contemporary Alaska Native artists, filmmakers, and cultural practitioners who bridge tradition and innovation.
Explore Cultural GrantsGet in Touch
Questions about programs, eligibility, or applications? Our team is here to help.