As part of our Climate focus, First Nations works to support tribal economies through the Growing Tribal Economies Through Forest Market Innovations project. This project provides financial incentives for tribes to explore and develop new and innovative markets that will ensure healthy, resilient forests for the future. Investments seek to incentivize reforestation, improve forest management, and lower barriers for tribes to access new and emerging forest market opportunities.
Through this project, First Nations supports tribes and Alaska Native Villages and Corporations as they explore, develop, and participate in emerging markets to improve their tribal economies and forest ecosystems. Market participation offers tribes an opportunity to create new culturally relevant models built upon traditional practices and community-led stewardship. This may include developing forest products and corresponding certifications; implementing prescription fire programs; incorporating traditional knowledge into forest management plans; and addressing the restoration or protection of biodiversity, wildlife habitat, and forest resilience.
This project is made possible thanks to generous contributions from the U.S. Forest Service.
In October 2025, nine grants totaling of $1.79 million dollars were awarded to tribes and Alaska Native Villages and Corporations to advance exploration and development of new and innovative markets that will grow tribal economies and improve forest management. A second round of funding will be announced in early 2027. Grant amounts will range between $200,000 to $500,000 depending on the scope of the project.
Check back for more information.
