Native Arts New England Grant

The Native Arts program ran from 2007-2014. Learn more on the Past Programs page. 

Native American artists and organizations are encouraged to contact us for assistance with project planning and referrals to other NEFA programs and resources.

In 2013-14, Native Arts celebrates the outstanding artists and organizations supported to date with an  exhibition, companion publication, and related events for artists and the public.

Grants support projects that involve or benefit the community and address preservation of native arts and cultural traditions, contemporary native arts, and training and technical assistance that will support the artists’ work.

Eligibility

Native American artists and Native-led nonprofit organizations must:

• Be Native American, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian.
• Reside or be based in one of the six New England states.
• Have submitted final reports for any previous NEFA Native Arts funding.
• Complete the project within one year of receiving funding.
• Be able to fulfill the grantee requirements [link to section below] if funded.

This program will not fund: 

• Activities that take place exclusively in schools during class time.
• Political campaigns or lobbying.
• Fundraising events or pow wows.
• Construction or capital improvements.
• For-profit organizations.
• Major equipment purchases.
• Out of region travel or projects with major expense for travel.

Funding Criteria

This application process is competitive. Awards will be based on submission of a thorough application according to the following priorities:

• Applicant demonstrates artistic skill, accomplishment, and experience in the proposed art form, medium, or media, shown through the submitted artist statement, resume, and work samples.
• The proposed project addresses an identified need or benefit for the artist(s) and/or specific community/ies in New England.
• The project aligns with the overall purpose of NEFA's Native Arts program – to support Native American artists creating traditional and contemporary art.
• Commitment to preserving and encouraging art and artmaking in New England communities.

Process & Deadlines

Process 

1. Attend a workshop or speak with staff.
2. Prepare and submit an application.
3. If awarded a grant, return contract from award packet.
4. Plan and document project for the final report.
5. Submit an evaluation one project is complete.
6. If not awarded, speak with staff about ways to improve your application.

Deadlines  - Currently not accepting applications; see note below*

Deadlines are typically the first Monday in October and third Monday in March. Check back for updates.

*In 2013-14, the program is focusing on visibility for the outstanding individuals and organizations that have received grants to date; a comprehensive exhibition, catalog, and related events are the major activities. During this time, NEFA is not accepting new applications; however, potential applicants are encouraged to contact Native Arts program staff for project planning assistance, including referrals to other NEFA programs and outside sources.

Grant REQUESTs & Instructions

In 2013-14, the program is focusing on visibility for the outstanding individuals and organizations that have received grants to date; a comprehensive exhibition, catalog, and related events are the major activities. During this time, NEFA is not accepting new applications; however, potential applicants are encouraged to contact Native Arts program staff for project planning assistance, including referrals to other NEFA programs and outside sources.

How to Apply

1. Contact NEFA staff or attend a Native Arts workshop.
2. See the request requirements listed below and submit online.

Requirements:

1. Project narrative describing the following:
   1. Your artistry or organization and accomplishments to date.
   2. Your proposed project in relation to the funding criteria (the need, the plan, and the lasting benefit).
   3. How the grant funds will be spent.
2. Budget: Use the budget worksheet in the request as a guide and fill in ONLY the fields that are relevant to your project. Then explain all of your budget items in the Budget Narrative block.
3. Artist statement or organization history: This is a statement about yourself as an artist - why you make the art you do, what motivates you, and your artistic goals.
4. Supporting materials: The following should be included in the online request:
   1. Work samples: digital images of artwork related to project. Work samples may also include audio, visual, or DVD samples.
   2. Artist resume.
   3. Two current and signed letters of support for the project.
   4. Documentation that the applicant is Native American, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian.
   5. (Optional) Other supportive materials, including press, awards, etc.

Requirements & Reports for Grant Recipients

Requirements
All Native Arts New England grantees are required to submit an evaluation within one month from the end of their project.

Click below to log in and begin your grantee report. You may save and return at any time.

 START YOUR GRANTEE REPORT   

Contact

Summer Confuorto (Gros Ventre/Mi’kmaq) | Program Coordinator
sconfuorto@nefa.org | 617.951.0010 x533