Report: AICF/Brookings finds federal, philanthropic funding gaps persist for Native Americans

A report from the American Indian College Fund and the Brookings Institution finds that federal and philanthropic investment in Native American communities remains far below documented needs. Brookings estimates recent federal cuts could cost Tribal communities $1.5 billion or more in future grant funding. In 2024, federal spending on Native American language revitalization reached $41.5 million, less than 3% of estimated annual need, while the Indian Health Service received $7.1 billion against a $73 billion funding requirement. The report found that private philanthropy also falls short, with less than 1% of U.S. foundation and corporate giving reaching Native-serving causes. The report calls for mandatory federal funding, better data, and more informed grantmaking.