Keepers of the Earth Fund Awards $564,000

Why this is here: The fund awarded 17 grants directly to Indigenous traditional governments, empowering self-determination and local control over resources.

Cultural Survival’s Keepers of the Earth Fund awarded $564,000 in grants to 60 Indigenous-led projects across 19 countries in 2026. Since 2017, the fund has distributed over $3.2 million through 506 grants, directly supporting Indigenous communities and organizations. This year’s funding prioritizes projects focused on knowledge transmission, sustainable economies, and protecting cultural practices.

Several projects center on language revitalization, like the Kuechi Community Education collective in México expanding youth programs to teach Rarámuri language and traditions. Other grants support practical initiatives, such as the Women’s Patrols of San Antonio in Peru strengthening food security through climate adaptation training. Eight partners are receiving funding for a third time, showing a commitment to long-term relationships.

The fund also provided support to Indigenous rights defenders facing threats in Kichwa, Tseltal, and Inga communities. While the fund has expanded its reach, assessing the long-term impact of these grants and ensuring sustained support remains an ongoing challenge. The work to empower Indigenous communities continues.