Applications are now open for LIFT, a one-year award program by the Native Arts + Cultures Foundation (NACF) designed to support emerging Native artists in developing new work.

Now in its fifth iteration, LIFT provides powerful early-career support and encourages artists to explore social, cultural, and environmental issues, including cultural sovereignty, healing, and systemic change.

LIFT participants will receive:
+ $15,000 award (with at least $5k for the artist’s well-being)

+ Professional + culturally grounded development

+ Evaluation, reporting, and documentation support

+ Communications + marketing support

+ Mentorship guidance

+ Visibility, storytelling, and advocacy opportunities

This program is open to Native artists across all disciplines who are ready to elevate their leadership and inspire change. Applications are open now through March 19, 2026, at 8:00 PM PT.

Visit nativeartsandcultures.org/lift for more information and to apply.

Shape

Key Information:

+ What is LIFT? LIFT provides one-year, $15,000 awards supporting emerging Native artists to develop new work and grow as impactful community leaders.

+ Who can apply? LIFT is open to emerging Native artists across all disciplines who reside in the U.S., are not enrolled in higher education during the award period, and are shaping community-driven creative futures. Eligible applicants must be enrolled members of a U.S. federally or state-recognized tribe, or of Native Hawaiian ancestry.

+ Why LIFT? LIFT nurtures the next generation of Native artists by supporting the creation of new work, strengthening creative leadership, and building pathways for Native artists to shape cultural futures and community well-being.

+ Award Amount: $15,000 (with at least $5,000 for the artist’s well-being)

+ Number of Awards: 15 awards total

+ Application Deadline: March 19, 2026, at 8:00 PM PT (Pacific)

+ Award Period: August 1, 2026 – July 31, 2027