History
Over the last 20 years, many voices have called for a foundation of support for Native arts and cultures in the United States. Demand is urgent as elders are passing away before their traditional knowledge, cultural practices and artistic traditions are shared with younger generations. The Ford Foundation responded to this call, conducting a deep consultation and research process in the early 2000's. In response to this feasibility study, the Native Arts and Cultures Foundation was incorporated in 2007. It opened its national headquarters in Vancouver, Washington in 2009, and in 2009 began its first grantmaking cycle to support Native artists. Today the NACF has supported over 200 artists in 30 states and the District of Columbia.
Specialties
The Native Arts and Cultures Foundation supports and empowers Native American, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian artists and culture bearers throughout the United States.