Native American Roundtables
Exciting vision and innovative approaches are emerging from roundtable discussions about philanthropy in Indian Country.
Northwest Area Foundation has sponsored meetings of philanthropic and Native American leaders to deepen their understanding of the cultural strengths, economic potential and financial needs within American Indian reservation communities. Two meetings in 2010 focused on examining gaps and misconceptions, developing far-reaching vision, and outlining a long-term framework for grantmaking in Native communities. By bringing together diverse talent, experience, leadership and ingenuity, funders began to identify how they could realize their respective missions through grants into reservation communities. This emerging framework for grantmaking focuses on developing relationships between funders and tribes, then working together to build on Native assets and knowledge.
As a result of these discussions, the Foundation refined its vision of work in Indian Country and shared it with broader philanthropic organizations. A long time funder of Native American initiatives, the Foundation used the collectively-developed vision to inform its Native American Social Entrepreneurship grantmaking initiative. This effort seeks to build reservation economies and community development financial institutions while applying entrepreneurial principles to social problems.
Look for additional information as the Foundation seeks to build these conversations and relationships. For more information, contact Martin Jennings at mjennings@nwaf.org.
