Introducing the 2025 First Peoples Fund Cultural Capital and Artist in Business Leadership Fellows!
First Peoples Fund proudly announces the 2025 fellowship recipients: 19 Artist in Business Leadership Fellows and 11 Cultural Capital Fellows. With $300,000 in direct funding, each fellow receives a $10,000 award and yearlong professional development, empowering them to elevate their art, preserve cultural traditions, and enrich the Indigenous Arts Ecology. This exceptional cohort represents the vibrant talent and cultural diversity thriving in Indigenous communities today.
"This year's fellowship cohort demonstrates the diversity and strength of Native art throughout Indian Country."
Justin Kíí Huenemann (Diné), President and CEO of First Peoples Fund, shares his excitement for FPF’s new Native Performing Arts Program: “Native art thrives in countless forms, practices, and ideas. This year’s cohort beautifully demonstrates that the artists themselves define Native art—and it is as powerful and diverse as they say it is.” He adds, “Each year, I am inspired by the talent and vision our Cultural Capital and Artist in Business Leadership fellows bring to the world. It’s a true honor to support and uplift these artists, knowing their work will continue transforming their communities and inspiring future generations.”
Artist In Business Leadership Fellowship
Our yearlong program is designed to empower independent Native artists on their journey to transform their art into successful businesses. Through comprehensive network-building opportunities, professional development training, and vital funding support, we provide the tools to launch them into sustainable success, enabling them to support themselves and their families better while pursuing their artistic passions.
Cultural capital fellowship
Dedicated to uplifting and passing on ancestral knowledge within Native communities, our Cultural Capital Fellowship offers financial and technical support to culture bearers and artists. This yearlong program empowers them to further their essential work, ensuring the conservation and celebration of Indigenous heritage and traditions for future generations.
Explore the profiles of our fellows and learn more about their inspiring journeys and contributions to Indigenous art and culture. Let's celebrate their achievements and support their continued success as they enrich and elevate our communities.
Follow us, subscribe to our mailing list, and check out the First Peoples Fund Fellowships page for updates on the impactful work of our fellows and opportunities to engage with Indigenous art and culture initiatives.
