Traditional Helpers and Healers Micro Grant Fund

The Traditional Helpers and Healers Micro Grant Fund, administered by the Return to the Heart Foundation, supports Native women-led initiatives that foster healing in tribal communities across the United States. This private grant program emphasizes the vital role of Native American women in community wellbeing and cultural revitalization. The foundation's mission reflects a deep commitment to overcoming systemic barriers and promoting holistic healing and social justice through grassroots, culturally rooted projects. This microgrant program provides $1,500 awards to Native women, 18 years or older, who are members of federally recognized tribes and reside in the United States. Applicants must lead projects that directly benefit tribal communities, whether on or off tribal lands. Eligible projects must center on helping and healing in Indigenous communities through activities that promote mental, spiritual, physical, and cultural wellness. Common areas of focus include traditional food and medicine, language and cultural revitalization, and community-based healing programs. Applications opened on Indigenous Peoples Day, October 13, 2025, and will close on November 30, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. PST. The application is accessible online and can be edited up to the deadline. Award notifications are expected to be released in mid-December 2025. The application form asks for detailed project descriptions, the applicant's vision for healing in Native communities, the estimated number of individuals impacted, and an explanation of how the grant will support the proposed work. Applicants must also indicate whether the project serves Native girls and commit to completing a post-award survey if selected. Selected grantees will participate in a virtual welcome meeting to share their work and connect with fellow awardees. They will also be invited to join peace circles organized by the foundation, offering space for ongoing reflection and collective healing. These gatherings are designed to foster collaboration and support among grantees. There is no stated matching requirement or cost-share obligation for this funding opportunity. The program does not specify performance periods or reporting requirements beyond the initial survey. However, the foundation underscores the importance of community impact and sustainability, prioritizing projects with transformative healing goals and measurable benefits for tribal members. Applicants seeking additional information or clarification can contact the program via grants@return2heart.org. The program has an annual application cycle, with the next opportunity expected to reopen in Fall 2026.

Focus on community healing, cultural grounding, and long-term impact to enhance competitiveness.