Heritage Project Grants
The CIRI Foundation is proud to support community-driven projects that preserve, celebrate, and perpetuate Alaska Native language, oral history, material arts, and cultural knowledge across the Cook Inlet region.
Based on scope & resources
Prompt board notification
Direct benefit to shareholders
$4.4M+ community funding
Funding Priorities
Heritage Project Grants prioritize projects that preserve, celebrate, and strengthen Alaska Native history, arts, and culture in Cook Inlet communities. TCF strongly encourages multi-generational collaboration connecting Elders and youth.
Education & Curriculum
Educational projects, research initiatives, and curriculum materials that enhance appreciation and understanding of Alaska Native history and culture.
Oral Histories & Archives
Preservation and interpretation of Alaska Native cultural belongings, ancestral recordings, Elder interviews, and historical archives.
Traditional Arts & Mentorship
Master-apprentice workshops, regalia making, carving, and community exhibitions that perpetuate customary Alaska Native art forms.
Subsistence & Cultural Stewardship
Cultural programs tied to Alaska Native lands, ancestral waterways, traditional harvests, and subsistence lifeways.
Eligibility & Guidelines
Review applicant qualifications and restricted expense categories prior to submitting a project proposal.
Who Can Apply
- Geographic Scope: Must take place in or directly serve the Cook Inlet region of Alaska.
- Eligible Entities: Alaska Native tribal governments, 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations, and cultural groups.
- Non-Native Non-profits: Must explicitly substantiate how the project directly benefits CIRI shareholders and descendants.
- Matching Preference: Applicants securing a 1-to-1 funding match receive evaluation preference.
- Reporting: Final narrative report and financial accounting due within 30 days of completion.
Ineligible Projects & Expenses
- Projects with 25% or more of total funding from government sources.
- Capital construction campaigns, facility endowments, or building renovations.
- Re-granting programs, individual scholarships, or pass-through travel stipends.
- Projects that have already concluded before the review cycle begins.
- Political campaign activities, lobbying, or legislative advocacy efforts.
Application Process & Checklist
Ensure all six components are completed and submitted together prior to the posted review deadline.
Official signed TCF Project Grant Application packet.
Brief overview of the project's vision, objectives, and cultural relevance.
Itemized breakdown of all planned expenses, matching funds, and in-kind support.
Detailed statement covering project timeline, personnel, and shareholder benefit.
Resolution or formal letter of endorsement from applicant tribal or organizational board.
IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter and signed Form W-9 for grantee.
Explore Past Grant Recipients
Search our comprehensive archive of over $4.4 million awarded to tribal governments, regional non-profits, culture bearers, and master artists since 1982.
Have Questions About Your Proposal?
The CIRI Foundation grantmaking team is available to discuss prospective project concepts, alignment with CIRI shareholder priorities, and application procedures.