History of SNAP
First Nations Development Institute developed the Strengthening Native American Philanthropy (SNAP) initiative in 1995 to increase Native American and tribal participation in philanthropy, both as funders and grant recipients. First Nations believes that tribes and Native organizations can develop their own philanthropic models to protect Native assets and develop new assets. Tribes have a range of organizational options available to them as they design their philanthropic programs, and we are committed to working with tribes and Native nonprofits to find the best model to fit their needs. Through a combination of education, outreach, and training, First Nations disseminates information about developing philanthropic models and sovereign approaches to charitable giving.
Mission of SNAP
Empowering tribes and Native organizations to exercise self-determination by taking control of their financial assets through the creation of Native-controlled grantmaking philanthropic vehicles.
Vision of SNAP
Ensuring Native communities’ long-term sustainability through capitalizing Indian communities and increasing sovereignty for tribes.
Generally, private foundations and public charities fall under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. For Tribal Governments, however, the Indian Tribal Governmental Tax Status Act of 1982 supported Indian nations in establishing, regulating and controlling philanthropic activities within their communities under the leadership of the Tribal Government.
Links to Other SNAP Resources:
Resources for nonprofits & tribal philanthropic programs
Resources for foundations, corporations and tribes interested in supporting tribal philanthropy
Information about starting a tribal foundation or receiving training/technical assistance
Learn about the Native Ways Federation - supporting nonprofits serving Indian Country
Sign up to receive email updates and announcements
Confederated Tribes of Umatilla Indian Reservation Community Foundation
$25,900
Support the creation of a Tribal community foundation, including activities related to fiscal management, board recruitment and development, Executive Director recruitment and resource development.
DNA Peoples Legal Services
Window Rock, AZ
$2,500
For more information on the SNAP program, please contact Sarah Dewees, Director of Research, at sdewees@firstnations.org or at (540) 371-5615.
