Indigenous Community Research Fund
Supports Indigenous researchers and communities in conducting culturally aligned research using APS’s collections, with guidance from the Center for Native American and Indigenous Research.
Funder: American Philosophical Society
Due Dates: Rolling until funds are exhausted | Next cycle resets January 1, 2027
Funding Amounts: Typically $2,000–$5,000 per project for travel and lodging; amount tailored to applicant needs
Summary: Supports Indigenous researchers and communities in visiting APS collections to advance Indigenous community-based priorities, with guidance from the Center for Native American and Indigenous Research (CNAIR).
Key Information: No academic affiliation or specific background required; open internationally but does not provide visa sponsorship.
Description
This grant supports individuals or groups—primarily Indigenous community members, elders, teachers, knowledge keepers, tribal officials, traditional leaders, museum and archive professionals, and independent scholars—who wish to visit the American Philosophical Society (APS) Library & Museum in Philadelphia. The aim is to advance Indigenous community-based priorities through research using APS’s extensive collections, which include manuscripts, audio recordings, and images related to over 650 Indigenous cultures from North and Central America.
Awardees collaborate closely with the Center for Native American and Indigenous Research (CNAIR) for tailored support and ongoing consultation before, during, and after their research visit. The program emphasizes relationship-building, flexibility, and alignment with Indigenous values and protocols.
