Tribal Cultural Affairs Grant

The Tribal Cultural Grant, administered by the Washington State Arts Commission (ArtsWA), is a non-competitive funding opportunity designed to support the cultural and artistic priorities of Washington State’s Federally-recognized Tribes. This initiative, funded through legislative appropriations, acknowledges the essential role of cultural preservation and artistic expression in Tribal communities. Its core objective is to provide consistent, meaningful support that is respectful of and responsive to each Tribe’s unique cultural landscape. ArtsWA facilitates this grant to ensure access to resources that foster traditional and contemporary cultural expression, affirming the State’s commitment to Tribal sovereignty and cultural enrichment. This grant allows each eligible Tribe to receive a base amount of $17,000 in the Fiscal Year 2027 cycle, contingent upon full participation by all 29 Federally-recognized Tribes. If fewer than 29 Tribes apply, remaining funds will be reallocated proportionally to the applicants. Tribes are also invited to indicate interest in additional funding, should further funds become available. Examples of projects previously funded include regalia making, language preservation efforts like dictionaries and children’s books, cultural class facilitation, Tribal museum programming, and support for culture teachers. The program maintains a flexible scope to support a wide range of activities such as weaving, carving, foodways, language revitalization, and community art installations. Eligibility is strictly limited to Washington State Federally-recognized Tribes, with each Tribe permitted to submit one application supporting one or multiple projects. Tribes receiving funding in the previous fiscal year (FY2026) must complete their final reports to be eligible for FY2027 funding. Projects must take place within the designated grant period from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027, and cannot include expenses incurred outside this timeframe or prior to the agreement’s start. Allowable expenses include artist and contractor fees, museum enhancements, materials and supplies, travel for in-state consultants, administrative costs, technology support for access, and start-up funds for Native/Indigenous artists. The application opens on February 3, 2026, and closes on March 31, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Applications must be submitted through Submittable, and applicants will receive a confirmation email upon submission. An open office hour session is scheduled for March 3, 2026, at noon for potential applicants to address any questions regarding the grant guidelines or submission process. Notifications of award status will be issued by May 16, 2026. Applicants must complete a Grant Confirmation Form by June 1, 2026, after which agreements will be issued by June 15, 2026. Applicants may choose between advance payment or reimbursement models for receiving funds. Those selecting advance payment can access funds upon signing the agreement invoice. Reimbursement payments are processed upon request after signing. The grant’s final report, due by August 31, 2027, is a key element for continued funding of the Tribal Cultural Affairs program and should include photo documentation of funded activities. This helps ArtsWA demonstrate impact and advocate for sustained legislative support. Questions can be directed to Angelena Campobasso (Tribal Cultural Affairs Program Manager) at 360-252-9974 or [email protected], or Linnea Ingalls (Program Coordinator) at 360-252-9969 or [email protected].

Final report with photo documentation is required and impacts future funding appeals.