ᎠᏂᎦᏚᎵᏍᏗ · Investing in Our People
Grant Programs
The Sovereign Chickamauga Cherokee Tribe of Arkansas offers grants to support our members, our community, and the preservation of our culture and sovereignty.
Why We Grant
Sovereignty Means Taking Care of Our Own
A sovereign people does not wait for outside institutions to meet their needs. The Sovereign Chickamauga Cherokee Tribe of Arkansas is committed to building the internal capacity to support our members, preserve our culture, and strengthen our community — through direct investment.
Our grant programs are funded through tribal revenue, donations, and partnerships. Every dollar awarded stays in the Arkansas River Valley Cherokee community.
Available Funding
Our Grant Programs
Cultural Preservation Grant
Culture & Language
Supports projects that preserve and promote Cherokee language, traditional arts, ceremonial practices, and cultural knowledge. Open to tribal members and community organizations working in partnership with the tribe.
Eligibility
- Enrolled tribal members
- Community organizations partnering with the tribe
- Educational institutions with tribal partnerships
Approved Uses
- Cherokee language learning materials
- Traditional arts and crafts instruction
- Cultural documentation projects
- Ceremonial supply and grounds maintenance
Deadline
Rolling Applications
Community Wellness Grant
Health & Wellbeing
Funds programs that improve the health and wellbeing of tribal members and the surrounding Arkansas River Valley community. Priority given to projects addressing food security, mental health, and elder care.
Eligibility
- Enrolled tribal members
- Nonprofit organizations serving the Arkansas River Valley
- Healthcare providers partnering with the tribe
Approved Uses
- Food pantry operations and supplies
- Elder care and transportation assistance
- Mental health and wellness programming
- Medical supply assistance for tribal members
Deadline
Rolling Applications
Youth Education Grant
Education
Supports educational opportunities for Cherokee youth, from K–12 enrichment programs to college scholarships and vocational training. Rooted in the belief that educated youth are the foundation of a strong tribe.
Eligibility
- Enrolled tribal members ages 5–25
- Parents or guardians applying on behalf of minors
- Schools and programs serving Cherokee youth
Approved Uses
- School supplies and technology
- College application and tuition assistance
- Vocational and trade school support
- Cultural education enrichment programs
Deadline
Rolling Applications
Land & Environment Grant
Land Stewardship
Supports projects that honor our traditional relationship with the land — from conservation and sustainable agriculture to the restoration of native plants and the protection of sacred sites in the Arkansas River Valley.
Eligibility
- Enrolled tribal members with land in the service area
- Conservation organizations partnering with the tribe
- Agricultural cooperatives with tribal membership
Approved Uses
- Native plant restoration projects
- Sustainable farming and gardening
- Sacred site documentation and protection
- Environmental education programs
Deadline
Rolling Applications
Tribal Recognition Support Grant
Sovereignty & Recognition
Directly supports the Sovereign Chickamauga Cherokee Tribe's ongoing state and federal reinstatement efforts — including legal fees, documentation, genealogical research, and advocacy work.
Eligibility
- Tribal council and leadership
- Legal and research professionals engaged by the tribe
- Genealogical researchers supporting tribal enrollment
Approved Uses
- Legal representation and filing fees
- Genealogical and historical research
- Government relations and advocacy
- Documentation and archival projects
Deadline
Rolling Applications
Small Business & Entrepreneurship Grant
Economic Development
Will support Cherokee tribal members in starting or growing small businesses — from traditional craft enterprises to service businesses in the Arkansas River Valley. Economic self-sufficiency is sovereignty.
Eligibility
- Enrolled tribal members 18 and older
- Existing businesses owned by tribal members
- New business ventures with a viable plan
Approved Uses
- Business startup costs and licensing
- Equipment and inventory
- Marketing and website development
- Business training and mentorship
Deadline
Coming Soon
Application Process
How to Apply
Review Eligibility
Read the grant description carefully to confirm you or your organization meets the eligibility requirements.
Prepare Your Application
Gather supporting documents: proof of tribal enrollment, project description, budget breakdown, and any letters of support.
Submit by Email
Email your completed application to [email protected] with the grant name in the subject line.
Review & Award
Applications are reviewed by the tribal council. You will be contacted within 30 days with a decision.
What to Include in Your Application
Federal Funding
Federal Grant Programs
The U.S. Department of Education and other federal agencies offer dedicated programs for American Indian and Alaska Native communities. These are programs our tribe and our partner schools may be eligible to access.
Indian Education — Formula Grants to Local Education Agencies
Office of Indian Education
Program Purpose
Addresses the unique cultural, language, and educationally related academic needs of American Indian and Alaska Native students, including preschool children. The principal federal vehicle for meeting the particular needs of Indian children and ensuring all students meet challenging State academic standards.
Application Requirements
Each applicant must develop a comprehensive plan in collaboration with a local committee comprised primarily of parents and family members of Indian children. The plan must include student performance goals, professional development activities, and an assessment strategy. Results must be reported to the parent committee, Indian community, and tribes whose children are served by the LEA.
Types of Funded Projects
- Culturally-responsive after-school programs
- Native language classes and instruction
- Early childhood education
- Tutoring and academic support
- Dropout prevention programs
- Core content area proficiency support
- Cultural enrichment programs
Note for our tribe: Local Education Agencies (LEAs) such as the Jasper School District — our partner — may apply on behalf of Indian students they serve. Contact us to explore a joint application.
Additional Resources
External Grant Opportunities
Beyond our own programs, these national organizations offer grants specifically for Native American individuals, tribes, and organizations.
Administration for Native Americans (ANA)
U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services
Federal grants for Native American language preservation, social and economic development, and environmental programs.
Visit WebsiteNative American Agriculture Fund (NAAF)
NAAF
Supports Native American farmers and ranchers through grants for agricultural education and business development.
Visit WebsiteFirst Nations Development Institute
First Nations
Grants and technical assistance for Native-led organizations focused on economic development and asset building.
Visit WebsiteAmerican Indian College Fund
AICF
Scholarships and grants for Native American students pursuing higher education at tribal colleges and universities.
Visit WebsiteQuestions?
We're Here to Help
Not sure which grant is right for you? Have questions about eligibility or the application process? Reach out — we want to help our community access every resource available.