Native Americans in Philanthropy, Newman’s Own Foundation, Novo Nordisk, and Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation build on $720K pilot fund to deepen youth leadership and community-driven philanthropy
Washington, D.C. — Native Americans in Philanthropy (NAP), in partnership with Newman’s Own Foundation, Novo Nordisk, and Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, announced today the second-year expansion of the Indigenous Tomorrows Fund (ITF), a grantmaking initiative that centers young people aged 14-24 in designing and awarding funding in Indigenous communities across the US. Following a successful 2025 pilot that awarded $720,000 to 24 organizations advancing community wellbeing, the fund will invest $1.65 million in its second year to expand support for Native-led solutions rooted in Indigenous values, leadership, and systems of care.
“The Indigenous Tomorrows Fund is showing what philanthropy can look like when youth are trusted not just to participate, but to lead,” said Erik Stegman, Chief Executive Officer of Native Americans in Philanthropy. “In our first year, we saw what is possible when decision-making power shifts closer to the community. In year two, we’re building on momentum by expanding resources, strengthening partnerships, and advancing a model that reflects how Indigenous communities define well-being.”
The expanded fund will support a range of organizations and initiatives across Native communities through a tiered grantmaking approach designed to meet organizations at different stages of growth:
Funding priorities center on five interconnected areas of well-being:
In its second year, ITF continues to evolve as a youth-led funding model shaped through a design process grounded in Indigenous values. Youth participants identified the need for interconnected, intergenerational funding strategies that reflect how community systems function and sustain cultural knowledge. Applications open May 20, with additional eligibility and application information available at https://nativephilanthropy.org/itf.
“Young people are not just the future; they are leaders today. At Newman’s Own Foundation, our mission is to nourish and transform the lives of children facing adversity, and we know lasting impact comes from investing in youth leadership and strengthening community-driven solutions,” said Jackie Blackbird, Indigenous Communities Officer at Newman’s Own Foundation. “The Indigenous Tomorrows Fund is a powerful example of what’s possible when youth lead and shape solutions that reflect their Indigenous communities, cultures, and visions for the future.”
At the core of the Indigenous Tomorrows Fund is a commitment to developing the next generation of philanthropic leaders. Youth participants receive training in grantmaking, Tribal philanthropy, and nonprofit systems, while gaining hands-on experience reviewing proposals and making funding decisions.
“What makes the Indigenous Tomorrows Fund different is the opportunity for young people to serve as decision-makers and help shape solutions that reflect what our communities truly need,” said Sara Jefferson, Chickahominy Indian Tribe and ITF 2025 cohort member. “This investment didn’t just fund programs, it deepened cultural connection and strengthened our ability to serve our community more holistically.”
Their leadership brought fresh perspective and deep cultural grounding to the process. Because of this support, we’ve been able to expand our impact in ways that feel aligned with our community and responsive to what our people truly need.”
In its inaugural year, youth ages 14–24 worked alongside mentors, advisors, and Tribal leaders to define funding priorities, review applications, and participate in final grant decisions. Funded supported food justice, community health and wellness, and programs strengthening connections among food, culture, and healing across generations.
Grounded in Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination, ITF is part of a broader effort to transform philanthropy’s relationship with Native communities. By increasing investment, expanding partnerships, and documenting this model, NAP and its collaborators aim to ensure Native communities have the resources and authority to define their own futures.
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About Native Americans in Philanthropy
Native Americans in Philanthropy (NAP) promotes equitable and effective philanthropy in Native communities. With more than 30 years in the field, NAP works in partnership with Tribal communities and sector leaders to build knowledge, strengthen networks, and advance community priorities. Its network includes Native professionals in philanthropy, Tribal leaders, youth leaders, nonprofit executives, and board members.
Newman’s Own Foundation is a private grantmaking foundation whose mission is to nourish and transform the lives of children who face adversity. The Foundation continues Paul Newman’s commitment to use all the money that it receives—100% of the profits and royalties—from the sale of Newman’s Own products in service of its mission. Through the efforts of Paul Newman and Newman’s Own Foundation, over $600 million has been given to social impact organizations since 1982.
Novo Nordisk is a leading global healthcare company, founded in 1923 and headquartered in Denmark. Its purpose is to drive change to defeat serious chronic diseases, built upon its heritage in diabetes. Novo Nordisk pioneers scientific breakthroughs, expands access to its medicines, and works to prevent and ultimately cure disease.
About Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation is a federally recognized Indian tribe located in southeastern Connecticut. As pioneers of the Indian casino gaming industry, the history of the Mashantucket Pequots reveals one of America’s greatest come-back stories, featured at the world-renowned Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center.