2025 lift – early career support for native artists program

The Native Arts and Cultures Foundation’s (NACF) LIFT – Early Career Support for Native Artists program supports emerging Native artists through one-year awards to develop and realize new projects. These awards are a crucial investment in cultivating fresh voices and envisioning the future of our respective Native practices.

Now in its fourth iteration, LIFT builds upon extensive research and strategic planning to expand opportunities for early-career Native artists. The program encourages artists to uplift communities, advance positive social change, point courageously toward environmental sustainability, and foster communal meaning-making. Through their projects, LIFT artists address critical issues around cultural sovereignty, environmental and social justice, healing and well-being, and systemic change.

The award period will run from August 1, 2025, to July 31, 2026.