NCAI Set to Begin Philanthropic Endeavors

In a significant stride towards advancing equity and empowerment, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) celebrated National Philanthropy Day with a landmark announcement: the establishment of its philanthropic branch, the NCAI Foundation (NCAIF). This momentous occasion marks not just a day of giving but symbolizes a profound dedication to nurturing the transformative journey of Tribal Nations towards a future of shared prosperity and resilience.

Greg Masten (Yurok), President of the NCAI Foundation, underlines the essence of this initiative, stating, “Today marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing journey towards equity and empowerment for Tribal Nations.” He further emphasizes that the NCAIF is more than just a foundation—it’s a beacon of hope and a testament to the unwavering commitment to uphold tribal sovereignty, empower leaders, and build a resilient future for the youth and Nations.

The NCAIF is envisioned as a bridge, fostering true partnerships between Tribal Nations and the philanthropic sector, dedicated to creating a future where Tribal Nations not only survive but thrive, supported by the recognition and resources they rightfully deserve.

The NCAI Foundation’s mission is multifaceted, focusing on four core areas: Upholding Tribal Sovereignty, Empowering Tribal Leadership, Cultivating Youth Leadership, and Fortifying Tribal Nations. A critical aspect of this mission is the Fortifying Tribal Nations program, through which the NCAIF aims to be a catalyst for change.

This program goes beyond providing financial resources; it serves as a pivotal connecting point for Tribal Nations and the philanthropic sector. This approach is particularly significant given that American Indian and Alaska Natives, representing nearly 3 percent of the U.S. population, have historically received less than 0.5 percent of philanthropic dollars for their strategies or initiatives. NCAIF seeks to address this disparity by ensuring that more resources are directed towards supporting tribal communities in diverse areas of work.

Central to NCAIF’s strategy is the innovative Equity and Sovereignty Framework. This framework is a guiding force in the foundation’s grantmaking processes, ensuring they are deeply rooted in principles of equity and respect for tribal sovereignty.

More importantly, this framework will inform NCAIF’s interactions with the philanthropy sector, emphasizing collaboration, respect for tribal governance, and the promotion of culturally appropriate practices. It represents a significant step towards rectifying historical imbalances and fostering respectful and true partnerships between philanthropic entities and Tribal Nations.

The contrast between traditional philanthropy and the Equity & Sovereignty Framework is stark. Traditional philanthropy often adopts a top-down approach, where donors decide what is best for beneficiaries, unintentionally perpetuating systemic inequities. In contrast, the Equity and Sovereignty Framework ensures shared ownership, with Tribal Nations actively participating in decision-making.

This approach fosters solutions that are rooted in the lived experiences of Tribal Nations. It also emphasizes cultural respect and integration, centering connection and respect for Native wisdom, in stark contrast to traditional approaches that may sideline these crucial elements. The focus is on long-term, sustainable solutions rather than temporary fixes, grounded in the unique needs and aspirations of each Tribal Nation.

The Foundation will soon announce various opportunities for Tribal Nations to apply for grant funding. These initiatives, reflecting priorities identified by tribal leaders, will focus on areas such as education, infrastructure, cultural preservation, economic development, environmental stewardship, and addressing social inequities.

The NCAI Foundation is set to redefine the philanthropic landscape for Tribal Nations. By embracing the wisdom and expertise of Tribal Nations, the Foundation is poised to foster strategic partnerships and drive significant change. This initiative is more than just a response to historical disparities; it represents an opportunity to embark on a transformative journey, forging pathways to a future of shared prosperity and resilience for Tribal Nations.