First Peoples Fund Opens Nominations for Community Spirit Awards

The First Peoples Fund has announced the opening of nominations for the 2026 Jennifer Easton Community Spirit Awards, offering $50,000 unrestricted grants to exceptional Native artists who dedicate their lives to preserving and sharing cultural knowledge.

Nominations will be accepted from May 19 through June 18, 2025, for this prestigious program that honors Indigenous artists deeply rooted in their communities. The awards, established in honor of First Peoples Fund’s founder, specifically supports artists who maintain strong community connections while actively passing down traditional practices.

Recipients can work in any artistic medium, including music, dance, clothing design, basket weaving, beading, storytelling, and other traditional or contemporary forms. The program seeks to identify cultural bearers whose work strengthens Indigenous communities by sharing skills and knowledge.

The unrestricted $50,000 grants support these essential knowledge keepers in continuing their vital cultural work. Between four and six honorees will be selected for the 2026 award cycle, depending on available funding.

Importantly, artists cannot apply directly but must be nominated. This nomination-only approach ensures recognition of those whose selfless contributions might otherwise go unacknowledged while helping Native communities heal and thrive through cultural preservation.

To learn more and nominate, visit the First Peoples Fund.